No Nobel Prize in Physiology/Medicine: Money directed to Special Fund due to global disruptions.
| Science |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
5 min read
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was not awarded this particular year. The prize money allocated for this category was directed to the Special Fund of this prize section. The absence of an award in this specific area reflected the broader context of global disruptions impacting scientific research and development at the time.
Historically, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to individuals or groups who have made substantial contributions to medical science, often leading to significant advancements in health and medicine. However, in this year, the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine determined that none of the nominations met the criteria outlined in Alfred Nobel’s will, particularly terms requiring the acknowledgment of discoveries that provided the “greatest benefit to mankind.”
The allocation of the prize money to the Special Fund served as a strategic measure to preserve those funds for future use. It ensured the continuation of recognizing exceptional scientific achievements even if an award was not granted for the year in question. It is essential to acknowledge that this decision might have also been influenced by the prevailing socio-political environment, which significantly disrupted normal activities, including scientific endeavors and communication.
These unique circumstances highlight the rigorous standards maintained by the Nobel Committee in the selection process. The commitment to uphold these standards ensured the prize's integrity and sustained its prestige over the years. Decisions such as redirecting funds to the Special Fund were critical in maintaining the continuity and future potential of the Nobel Prize amid challenging conditions.
The impact of this decision on the scientific community was profound. It served as a reminder of the importance of scientific excellence and the necessity of uninterrupted research and innovation. Despite no award being issued, the reallocation of funds reinforced the value placed on future contributions to science and medicine.
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Primary Reference: The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1916 - NobelPrize.org

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