description Einstein's Brain Overview
Albert Einstein's brain was preserved by pathologist Thomas Harvey during the 1955 autopsy at Princeton Hospital. Harvey sectioned the brain into blocks, preserving them in celloidin and distributing samples to various researchers over subsequent decades. Scientists studied the tissue seeking physical indicators of Einstein's intelligence, with studies noting variations in the parietal lobe and glial cell distribution. It remains a subject of historical and neurological interest.
help Einstein's Brain FAQ
Where is Albert Einstein's brain currently kept?
The majority of Albert Einstein's brain is currently held at the Mütter Museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The museum acquired the specimens from Dr. Thomas Harvey, the pathologist who originally removed the brain during Einstein's 1955 autopsy in Princeton.
Why was Albert Einstein's brain stolen during his autopsy?
Dr. Thomas Harvey took the brain without permission during the 1955 autopsy because he wanted to discover the physical signs of genius. He hoped that studying the brain's anatomy would reveal neurological differences that explained Einstein's extraordinary intelligence.
Did researchers ever find anything unique about Einstein's brain anatomy?
In the 1980s, a study by Marian Diamond claimed that Einstein's brain had a higher ratio of glial cells in the inferior parietal lobe compared to average brains. Other researchers later noted that his brain lacked a typical sulcal groove in the parietal lobe, potentially allowing for better connectivity.
How was Albert Einstein's brain preserved for scientific study?
After removing it during the autopsy, Dr. Thomas Harvey carefully preserved the brain by embedding it in celloidin. He then sliced it into hundreds of microscopic blocks and mounted thin sections onto glass slides for distribution to various neuroresearchers.
explore Explore More
Similar to Einstein's Brain
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
