• Introduction and overview; From the beginnings to the cell theory; Do nerve cells belong in the cell theory?; Nerve cells or nerve nets?; Kolliker gives in; Support builds for networks; The nerve cell studies of Freud; The revolutionary method of Golgi; A neuron theory takes form: His, Forel, Nansen; Ramon Y Cajal: The shock of recognition; The early discoveries of Cajal; The laws of Cajal; Joining the mainstream; The neuron doctrine; The law of dynamic polarization; Controversy; The synapse and the growth cone; Forging a consensus; Confrontation in Stockholm; Modern revisions of the neuron doctrine; Comments on sources; References; Author index; Subject index.

The excerpts from original articles and Shepherd's scholarly comment give a balanced and orderly history of the evidence for the neuron doctrine from the earliest discoveries to its final triumph in the hands of the Spanish histologist Ramön y Cajal. Shepherd's treatment of the reticular theorists is particularly helpful. The book is of interest and importance for anyone interested in the history of the nervous system. The book is essential for every library which covers the history of biology or medicine, and a pleasure for those of us interested in the nervous system.