Questions on Life: Diary of an Old Physician

Pirogov, N. I., 1992 Introduction by Galina Zarechnak Pirogov's life (1810–1881) coincided with the "golden age of Russian literature" which dated roughly from 1820 to 1880. This was also the time of many historic upheavals and tragic events which were to have a profound influence on Pirogov personally as well as on the Russia whose ardent patriot he was. Questions of Life records Pirogov's observations, reactions to events of those times and reflections on a multitude of questions such as preventive medicine, the psychological impact of war on soldiers, women's role in society and the wars, women's rights, the role of religion in the state, the origin of the universe, ethical problems of medicine and education, the doctor-patient relationship, and so on. The diary consists of two parts. The first part reveals Pirogov's innermost thoughts, his views on science, education, philosophy, and his attitude toward life in general. The second part describes some of the important events of h