Lawrence Altman has authored the only complete history of the controversial and understudied practice of self-experimentation. In telling the stories of pioneering researchers, Altman offers a history of many of the most important medical advancements in recent years as well as centuries past—from anesthesia to yellow fever to heart disease. With a new preface, he brings readers up to date and continues his discussion of the ethics and controversy that continue to surround a practice that benefits millions but is understood by few.

Lawrence K. Altman, M.D., is medical correspondent of the New York Times and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at New York University Medical School.

"A lively and compelling history of one of the oldest and most controversial subjects in medical science."—Stanton Cope, Los Angeles Times Book Review

"An entertaining and informative history of self-experimentation that provides a foundation for exploring the ethics of human experimentation. . . . Altman should be applauded not only for his exploration of a fascinating story, but also for his willingness to take a firm stand on a controversial issue."—Lois Magner, American Scientist

"Tells some hair-raising stories. . . . Doctors will enjoy it as much as the public."—Mike Oppenheim, Journal of the American Medical Association

"Thoughtful and provocative."—Fitzhugh Mullan, New York Times Book Review