Cannon, Walter Bradford

Childhood

Walter grew up in an ordinary family. Since his father was a railway employee and his mother was a simple teacher, his upbringing was appropriate (labor). He made toys for himself, made and invented something, later he remembered it with great gratitude, because it was such skills that the future experimenter needed. Since the boy’s father was a Protestant, Walter was brought up in strict obedience and obedience. Probably due to the influence of his father, little Walter spent a lot of time studying religious works. Disagreement with religion led Walter to sever relations with his father, and after a while the boy's mother died.

Youth

At the age of 17, Walter became interested in what was really interesting to him: he began to read many scientific books, became interested in human evolution, in particular, became interested in the works of Charles Darwin ( Evolutionary Doctrine ). All these hobbies brought Walter Kennon to Harvard Medical School, after which he received a doctorate. Working subsequently under the guidance of professor of physiology Henry Boudich, Kennon began to conduct all his research in the physiology laboratory of Harvard Medical School. His first works touched on various problems of physiology, but despite the fact that he did not touch on psychology, his research was closely intertwined with this science.

For a long time, Walter studied the concept of emotions according to James-Lang, and on the basis of this concept, more precisely in its contrast, Kennon coined the term homeostasis ( 1932 ).

• Cannon WB Bodily changes in pain, hunger, fear and rage: An account of recent researches into the function of emotional excitement. - 1915. ("Body changes with pain, hunger, fear and anger")

• Profile of Walter (Walter) Bradford Kennon on the RAS official website