Hans Selye
Hans Selye: The Pioneer of Stress Research
Full Name and Common Aliases
Hans Seley was born on January 13, 1907, in Vienna, Austria-Hungary (now Austria) as János H. Selye. He is commonly known by his first name, Hans.
Birth and Death Dates
January 13, 1907 – October 16, 1982
Nationality and Profession(s)
Hungarian-Canadian endocrinologist, physiologist, and psychologist
Early Life and Background
Hans Selye's early life was marked by tragedy. His father died when he was only seven years old, leaving his mother to raise him and his younger sister in Vienna. Despite these challenges, Hans showed a keen interest in science from an early age and went on to study medicine at the University of Vienna.
Major Accomplishments
Hans Selye is best known for his groundbreaking work on stress. In 1936, he published his theory of General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), which posits that the body's response to stress follows a predictable pattern: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. This theory revolutionized our understanding of how stress affects human physiology.
Notable Works or Actions
Selye's research on stress led to numerous publications, including his seminal book "The Stress of Life" (1956). He also founded the Institute of Experimental Medicine and Surgery at the University of Montreal in 1943, which became a hub for research into stress and its effects on human health.
Impact and Legacy
Hans Selye's work on stress has had far-reaching impacts on various fields, including medicine, psychology, and sociology. His theory of GAS has been applied to understanding the effects of stress on physical and mental health, as well as in fields like business and education.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Hans Selye's legacy extends beyond his scientific contributions. He was a pioneer in interdisciplinary research, combining insights from medicine, psychology, and sociology to understand human behavior. His work continues to inspire new generations of researchers, scientists, and thinkers. Today, he is widely regarded as the "father of stress research," and his ideas remain essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human experience.
As a pioneer in stress research, Hans Selye's impact on modern society cannot be overstated. His work has helped us better understand the intricate relationships between physical and mental health, and has paved the way for new treatments and therapies. As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern life, Selye's insights remain as relevant today as they were when he first proposed his theory of General Adaptation Syndrome.
In conclusion, Hans Selye was a true trailblazer in the field of stress research. His groundbreaking work has left an indelible mark on our understanding of human behavior and physiology. As we reflect on his life and achievements, it is clear that his legacy will continue to inspire and inform us for generations to come.
Quotes by Hans Selye
Hans Selye's insights on:

Almost no germ is unconditionally dangerous to man; its disease-producing ability depends upon the body’s resistance.

Man should not try to avoid stress any more than he would shun food, love or exercise.

Mental tensions, frustrations, insecurity, aimlessness are among the most damaging stressors, and psychosomatic studies have shown how often they cause migraine headache, peptic ulcers, heart attacks, hypertension, mental disease, suicide, or just hopeless unhappiness.

Stress is not necessarily something bad it all depends on how you take it. The stress of exhilarating, creative successful work is beneficial, while that of failure, humiliation or infection is detrimental.

Gratitude conserves the vital energies of a person more than any other attitude tested.




