Gerald Edelman

Date of Birth: July 1, 1929

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 17, 2014

Biography

Gerald Maurice Edelman was an American biologist who made significant contributions to the fields of immunology and neuroscience. Born in New York City, Edelman displayed an early interest in science, which led him to pursue a career in medicine and research. He earned his M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania in 1954 and went on to receive his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Rockefeller University in 1960. Edelman is best known for his groundbreaking work on the immune system, particularly his discovery of the structure of antibody molecules, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1972, alongside Rodney Robert Porter. This discovery was pivotal in advancing our understanding of how the immune system identifies and combats pathogens. Later in his career, Edelman turned his attention to neuroscience, founding the Neurosciences Institute and developing the theory of Neural Darwinism. This theory posits that the brain’s development and functioning are shaped by a process similar to natural selection, where neural circuits compete for survival based on their utility and efficiency. Edelman authored several influential books and research papers that have had a lasting impact on both immunology and neuroscience. He was also a member of several prestigious scientific organizations and received numerous accolades throughout his career.

5 Interesting Facts about Gerald Edelman

1. Gerald Edelman was drafted into the U.S. Army Medical Corps and served in Paris, which fueled his interest in medical research.

2. He founded the Neurosciences Institute in 1981, which became a leading center for brain research.

3. Edelman was also a classical music enthusiast and played the violin.

4. He developed the Theory of Neuronal Group Selection, also known as Neural Darwinism, which proposes that brain development is guided by a process of natural selection.

5. Edelman was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 1983 and received the National Medal of Science in 1988.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gerald Edelman

1. “Biology is the science. Evolution is the concept that makes biology unique.”

2. “The brain is not a computer. It is not a machine. It is a very sophisticated, ever-changing, creative organ.”

3. “You can’t have a brain that’s more complicated than the universe because the brain is part of the universe.”

4. “Neural Darwinism emphasizes that the brain is a selectional system like evolution itself.”

5. “Science is imagination in a straitjacket.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gerald Edelman’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but he was highly respected and well-compensated through his academic positions, research grants, and book royalties.

Children

Gerald Edelman had three children: Eric Edelman, David Edelman, and Judith Edelman. His son, David, followed in his footsteps and is also a neuroscientist.