Extra-scientific Factors in the Awarding of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: The Case of Jaume Ferrán

Abstract

The undeniable prestige of the Nobel Prizes is sometimes seen as scientifically unjustified or lacking in merit compared to the work and medical and social impact of other nominated candidates. Dr. Jaume Ferran i Clua, a pioneer in the experimental study of the bacteriology of infectious diseases, a driving force behind laboratory medicine, and the creator of the first human vaccine against cholera in 1885, as well as against other serious contagious diseases, is a striking example of this apparent devaluation. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine six times during the second decade of the 20th century, without receiving it. We analyze the possible non- scientific reasons that contributed to the rejection of this deserving candidate.