Medical Science and the Defeat of Polio: Albert B. Sabin Signed 1991 Autograph Note Reflecting on Intellectual Influence

Albert Sabin

Manuscripts & Autographs

Sabin, Albert B. Autograph note reflecting on intellectual influences late in the career of the scientist who developed the first successful oral vaccine against poliomyelitis. Albert B. Sabin became internationally known during the mid twentieth century for creating the live attenuated oral polio vaccine, a development that transformed global public health by enabling mass immunization campaigns against one of the most feared diseases of the twentieth century. Written in 1991 when Sabin was eighty four years old, this note records a reflective statement on the book that he regarded as having a profound influence on his understanding of scientific discovery and intellectual history.

Sabin, Albert B. Autograph Note Signed. February 14, 1991. One page measuring 8.5 x 4 inches. In bold black fineline pen Sabin writes about the book he considered most influential in shaping his philosophical outlook late in life: “I have read many books in my 84 years that had an impact on my career and philosophy of life but not until I began reading and re reading the book named below did I realize how ignorant I was all my life: ‘THE DISCOVERERS: A History of Man’s Search to Know His World and Himself,’ by Daniel J. Boorstin (former Librarian of Congress)…” He signs the note “Albert B. Sabin.”

Sabin’s oral polio vaccine, introduced in the early 1960s, became the cornerstone of international polio eradication campaigns and remains one of the most consequential medical breakthroughs of the twentieth century. His work dramatically reduced the global incidence of poliomyelitis, a disease that had caused widespread paralysis and death during the first half of the century. This late life reflection connects Sabin’s own scientific career with a broader intellectual tradition of discovery and inquiry represented by Daniel J. Boorstin’s historical study of scientific exploration. Original mailing folds visible; otherwise well preserved. Overall very good to near fine condition. A reflective manuscript note by the virologist responsible for one of the most important medical advances of the twentieth century.

Item #14219

Price: $850.00