The hidden side of Santiago Ramon y Cajal

Pathologica. 2022 Jun;114(3):241-245. doi: 10.32074/1591-951X-208.

Abstract

Alongside his anatomical studies, which laid the foundations of modern neuroanatomy, Santiago Ramón y Cajal also showed a lively interest in studying dreams, hypnosis, and the world of the paranormal. On his travels to worlds far removed from anatomy, Cajal sometimes strove to find potential neuroanatomical explanations for the phenomena he encountered, while at other times he simply allowed himself to be carried along by his curiosity, with no preconceptions. His investigations in such diverse spheres of knowledge and human behavior are an exceptional example of a scientific epoch that has since disappeared.

Keywords: dream; hypnosis; neuroanatomy.