Hans Berger (1873-1941) was a German psychiatrist and neurologist who is best known for his discovery of the human brain’s electrical activity and for pioneering electroencephalography (EEG) as a medical tool. He was born on May 21, 1873, in Coburg, Germany.

Key Contributions and Achievements:

1. Discovery of Brain Waves: In 1924, Hans Berger made a groundbreaking discovery when he recorded and identified electrical impulses in the human brain. He called these electrical brain wave patterns “Elektrenströme” or “electrical currents of the brain,” which are now known as brain waves.
2. Electroencephalography (EEG): Building upon his discovery of brain waves, Berger developed the first EEG machine in 1929. EEG is a non-invasive technique that records and measures the electrical activity of the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. It has since become an essential diagnostic tool in neuroscience and clinical neurology.
3. Demonstration of Alpha Waves: One of Berger’s significant contributions was the identification of alpha waves, a type of brain wave that occurs during a relaxed state with closed eyes. The discovery of alpha waves is particularly relevant in understanding brain activity during states of rest and relaxation.
4. Publication of “Psychische Energie und das Prinzip der kleinsten Aktion” (Psychic Energy and the Principle of Least Action): In this book, published in 1932, Berger explored the concept of psychic energy and its relation to the principle of least action, offering insights into the physiological basis of psychological processes.
5. Recognition and Legacy: Hans Berger’s work on EEG was initially met with skepticism, but over time, his contributions were widely recognized, and EEG became a valuable tool in neuroscience and clinical medicine. His work laid the foundation for the study of brain electrical activity and contributed significantly to the understanding of brain function.
6. Personal Life and Death: Tragically, Hans Berger took his own life in 1941 during the early stages of World War II, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering research in neuroscience.

Hans Berger’s discovery of brain waves and the development of electroencephalography have had a profound impact on the fields of neuroscience and clinical medicine. His work opened up new avenues for studying the human brain’s electrical activity and has contributed to advancements in diagnosing and understanding various neurological conditions.