Review of Moscati on Human Bodily Structure
Kant presents an anatomical dissertation arguing that upright posture, though possible, has physiological consequences. He connects the hypothesis to questions about human nature and customary practices.
Understanding the text
The 1771 review concerns a German translation of physician Pietro Moscati. The anatomical hypotheses belong to the history of science and are not present-day medical advice.
Key points
- 01
Anatomical comparison
Human posture is examined in relation to the bodies of other animals.
- 02
Nature and habit
The review distinguishes what bodily organization permits from effects attributed to habitual practice.
- 03
Critical reading
The anatomical argument and Kant’s philosophical commentary require separate examination.
How to read it
Read the review as a historical document and compare its claims with current anatomical knowledge.
Editions & sources
Summaries and key points are original editorial interpretations. They accompany reading the work and do not replace an edition of the text. Editorial method ↗