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Review
. 1998;23(1):1-4.
doi: 10.1016/s0149-7634(97)00062-6.

The Cartesian clock metaphor for pineal gland operation pervades the origin of modern chronobiology

B Barrera-Mera  1 , E Barrera-Calva
Affiliations
Review

The Cartesian clock metaphor for pineal gland operation pervades the origin of modern chronobiology

B Barrera-Mera et al. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 1998.

Abstract

In theoretical descriptions formulated during the 1600s, R. Descartes attributed a clock-like role to the pineal gland. He established the belief that pineal function underlies the laws of the universe that determine the cyclic sleep-awake states in man. Recent reports about pineal circadian pacemakers now validate the brilliant accuracy of Cartesian thought, in relation to the relevant role of the pineal gland.

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