What is phrenology? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of phrenology

phrenologynoun
tướng số học
/frəˈnɒlədʒi//frəˈnɑːlədʒi/

Where does the word phrenology come from?

The word "phrenology" comes from the Greek roots "phrena" (φρεν), meaning "mind," and "-logia" (-λογία), meaning "study." In the 19th century, phrenology was a popular pseudoscientific theory that proposed the existence of specific brain regions, or "organs," that corresponded to various personality traits and intellectual abilities. Advocates of phrenology believed that by making careful measurements of the bumps and indentations on a person's skull, they could determine the size and shape of these organs and thus predict their character and intelligence. The popularity of phrenology waned in the late 19th century as it was discredited by the advances in medical science and the discovery of the more complex organization of the brain through modern imaging techniques. Today, phrenology is no longer considered a valid scientific discipline.

Vocabulary summary phrenology

type noun

meaning physiognomy

Example of vocabulary phrenologynamespace

In the 19th century, some physicians believed in the practice of phrenology, which claimed that the shape of a person's skull could reveal their intellectual and moral characteristics, such as their courage, benevolence, or literary ability.
The sciences of physiognomy and phrenology, popular during the Victorian era, delved into the relationship between physical characteristics and personality traits, sometimes with dubious results.
Although phrenology fell out of favor as a legitimate medical practice, some individuals still believe in the idea that certain physical features can indicate personality traits, such as a dimpled chin implying kindness or a strong jawline indicating confidence.
Phrenology, which originated in Europe but gained popularity in the United States, was widely promoted through lectures, advertising, and even personal consultations, where individuals could pay to have the shape of their skull determine their potential career paths, relationships, and more.
Some patients sought out phrenologists in desperation, hoping to cure or mitigate conditions such as phobias, epilepsy, or mental illnesses through the manipulation of their supposedly misshapen brain areas.