Nikita Yu. Pivovarov, Nataliya P. Shok
Using an analysis of archival materials about academic I.P. Pavlov, the authors of the article propose that the historical and biographical information about this leading scientist can present a fuller picture not only of an individual specialization but of medical science in general. The relationship is examined between I.P. Pavlov and the leadership of the Soviet state, which had a particular infl uence on the development of Russian science in 1920–1930s. The reasons why government representatives allowed him to openly criticize the USSR’s domestic and foreign policies are analyzed. The article reveals I.P. Pavlov’s main personality traits, which infl uenced his scientifi c and political views. Academic Pavlov was forthright, and freely expressed his opinion on a variety of issues, including decisions of the Soviet authorities. However, the authors believe that he did not have political goals: his motives were purely scientifi c. I.P. Pavlov had a signifi cant infl uence on the formation of a new concept of scientifi c medicine based on innovative experimental techniques suggested by him. He managed not only to create a new scientifi c fi eld in medicine but also ensured its development in the fi rst decades of Soviet power. The authors also note that I.P. Pavlov asserted national science priorities at the international level. It is concluded that studying his biographical data, based on a multidisciplinary approach and working with archival materials, can provide valuable data for future medical history analysis.
