Charcot's paradox

Abstract

Jean-Martin Charcot (1825-1893), considered the father of modern neurology, had a particular interest in pathology and learned to value anatomical findings. Among his main contributions is the use of the anatomo-clinical method in neurology. Although described as cold and impatient in his interpersonal relations, Charcot had a great affection for animals. He had two dogs in his home, which he called Carlo and Sigurd, and a little monkey, Rosalie. Despite his fascination with neuropathology and anatomo-clinical correlations, Charcot disapproved of studies using animal species other than humans, a seemingly paradoxical attitude. As a result, Charcot's human studies resulted in important advances in neurology as, prior to his research, anatomical observations of animals were extrapolated to humans, leading to conceptual errors.

Jean-Martin Charcot: the polymath

“…Charcot's compassionate nature extended to his love for animals, and he treated them with tenderness and care. 6 7 108 109 Guinon 6 reported the scene of Charcot being seen threateningly running behind a duck to catch a frog trapped in its beak.…”

“…Charcot may be defined as austere, reserved, introvert, taciturn, shy, authoritarian, associated with a competitive temperament, permeated by a skepticism in relation to the treatment of many neurological diseases, and sometimes, with expressions of irony and even sarcasm, in the relationship with other neurologists, and, paradoxically, an intense love for animals. 2 3 105 106 107 108 109 110…”

“…He firmly opposed vivisection and experiments involving animals at La Salpêtrière , where most of his neuroanatomical and neuropathological studies were based on human autopsies. 3 6 7 109 110 His stance against animal experimentation was evident in his office, where a sign painted by his wife clearly stated, “You will find no dog laboratory here.” 3 6 7 108 109 This sign symbolized his strong conviction against the use of animals for experimental purposes. Despite his dedication to human autopsies and his contributions to the field of neurology, Charcot's opposition to vivisection received criticism from some members of the scientific community, especially those associated with the École de Médecine .…”

Charcot’s Anglophilia

“…He abhorred the English blood sport of foxhunting because of his great affection toward animals. At home, he had 2 dogs (Carlo and Sigurd), plus a small female monkey (Rosalie), and during his entire life strongly opposed animal vivisection [20][21][22].…”

“…Charcot's taste in the arts was classical and conservative. His favorite authors were Shakespeare, Dante Alighieri, Rabelais, and Moliére [3,[21][22][23][24][25][26]. Charcot was also fond of the Irishman Laurence Sterne, whose novel The life and opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman was one of his favorites [25,26].…”