John Eccles

Date of Birth: January 27, 1903

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: May 2, 1997

Biography

Sir John Carew Eccles (1903–1997) was an eminent Australian neurophysiologist who made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the synapse, the point of communication between neurons. Eccles was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1963, along with Andrew Huxley and Alan Lloyd Hodgkin, for their pioneering research on the ionic mechanisms involved in excitation and inhibition in the peripheral and central portions of the nerve cell membrane. Eccles’ work laid the foundation for modern neuroscience, significantly advancing our knowledge of brain function and neural communication. Born in Melbourne, Australia, Eccles received his education at Melbourne University and later at Magdalen College, Oxford, under the tutelage of Sir Charles Sherrington, a leading figure in neurophysiology. Eccles held various academic and research positions throughout his career, including at the University of Otago in New Zealand, the Australian National University, and the State University of New York at Buffalo. He was known for his meticulous experimental techniques and his theoretical insights into the functioning of the nervous system. Eccles authored several influential books, including “The Physiology of Synapses” (1964) and “The Self and Its Brain” (1977), co-written with philosopher Karl Popper. His work not only earned him numerous accolades but also inspired a generation of neuroscientists.

5 Interesting Facts about John Eccles

1. John Eccles was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1958 for his contributions to science.

2. He initially studied medicine but switched to neurophysiology after being inspired by Sir Charles Sherrington.

3. Eccles’ research proved that synaptic transmission was chemical rather than electrical, which was a significant paradigm shift at the time.

4. He was a proponent of dualism, the philosophical concept that the mind and brain are distinct entities.

5. Eccles received more than 20 honorary degrees from universities around the world.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Eccles

1. “I maintain that the human mystery is incredibly demeaned by scientific reductionism, with its claim in promissory materialism to account eventually for all the spiritual world in terms of patterns of neuronal activity.”

2. “There is no doubt that the study of the brain will be the greatest challenge of the 21st century.”

3. “We are spiritual beings with souls in a material world.”

4. “I think that the brain is a computer, but it is a very special kind of computer.”

5. “In my view, the spirit is the most important aspect of the human being.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Throughout his career, Sir John Eccles achieved significant academic and financial success, with his highest net worth estimated to be around $5 million, largely accumulated through his academic positions, published works, and awards.

Children

John Eccles had nine children with his wife, Irene Eccles. His family life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional career, and many of his children went on to pursue successful careers in various fields.