Is it true that Einstein’s brain was stolen?
The mystery surrounding Albert Einstein’s brain has intrigued many for decades. According to various reports and rumors, Einstein’s brain was stolen after his death in 1955. This claim has sparked a debate among historians, scientists, and the general public, leaving many to wonder whether the story is true or simply a myth.
Origin of the Rumor
The rumor that Einstein’s brain was stolen began shortly after his death. According to reports, Einstein’s brain was removed by Thomas Harvey, a pathologist at the Princeton Hospital where the physicist passed away. Harvey was reportedly interested in studying the brain to understand its unique structure and function, which he believed contributed to Einstein’s extraordinary intelligence and creativity.
The Truth Behind the Story
While the story of Einstein’s brain being stolen is widely believed, there is no concrete evidence to support the claim. In fact, Thomas Harvey, who removed the brain, has publicly stated that he never stole it. He claimed that he had the permission of Einstein’s family to preserve the brain for scientific study.
Harvey’s Work with Einstein’s Brain
After removing the brain, Harvey conducted a thorough examination and preserved it. He took detailed measurements of the brain and even had it cast in plastic to study its structure. Harvey worked with several scientists and researchers over the years, sharing his findings and contributing to the understanding of brain anatomy and function.
The Brain’s Disappearance
In 2010, the whereabouts of Einstein’s brain became a topic of concern when it was discovered that the brain had gone missing from its storage container. The disappearance led to renewed speculation that the brain had been stolen. However, it was later revealed that the brain was simply misplaced and had been returned to its storage container.
Conclusion
While the story of Einstein’s brain being stolen remains a popular myth, there is no evidence to support the claim. Thomas Harvey, who removed the brain, has publicly stated that he never stole it and had the permission of Einstein’s family to preserve it for scientific study. The mystery surrounding Einstein’s brain may never be fully resolved, but one thing is certain: the brain itself has provided valuable insights into the human mind and continues to be a subject of scientific research.
