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Explore the fundamental principles and historical foundations of epidemiological research in this distinguished lecture by Ken Rothman from Boston University. Discover how epidemiologic research has evolved from its 17th-century origins with John Graunt's groundbreaking work on mortality data to John Snow's pivotal cholera studies in the 19th century. Learn how these early pioneers conducted remarkable research without modern technology, using only basic data collection and analytical thinking. Examine the contrast between historical epidemiological methods and contemporary approaches that rely heavily on sophisticated analytical techniques and electronic data sources. Understand how modern epidemiologists leverage digital technology and vast data repositories to overcome traditional data collection challenges, while also recognizing the new problems that technological advancement introduces to the field. Gain insights into why the core principles of epidemiological research remain fundamentally unchanged despite technological progress, and appreciate how anyone can engage with epidemiological thinking regardless of their technical background.
