Al-Razi (Rhazes)

Al-Razi, known in the West as Rhazes, was a Persian physician, philosopher, and scholar of the Islamic Golden Age, around the 9th and 10th centuries. He is best known for his pioneering work in medicine, particularly in diagnosing and treating diseases. Al-Razi authored the "Kitab al-Hawi," an influential medical encyclopedia, and emphasized empirical observation and experimentation. He also distinguished between different types of illnesses and was among the first to recognize the contagious nature of some diseases. His contributions laid foundational principles for modern medicine and pharmacology. Al-Razi is often celebrated for his commitment to scientific inquiry and rational thinking.