Sean Hsiang-lin Lei

Sean Hsiang-lin Lei is a historian of modern science and medicine in East Asia, particularly known for his work on the development of Chinese medicine in the twentieth century. He serves as a Distinguished Research Fellow at the Institute of Modern History, Academia Sinica in Taiwan. Lei's most notable work is "Neither Donkey Nor Horse: Medicine in the Struggle Over China's Modernity," published by the University of Chicago Press in 2014. This book examines how Chinese medicine was redefined and transformed during China's Republican period (1912-1949). His research focuses on the intersection of medicine, science, and society in modern China, exploring how traditional Chinese medicine adapted to and contested with Western biomedicine. Lei's work has contributed significantly to understanding how Chinese medicine maintained its relevance while undergoing modernization. Lei has received several academic honors, including the William H. Welch Medal from the American Association for the History of Medicine for his contributions to medical history. His research continues to influence scholarly discussions about the evolution of medical practices in East Asia and the complex relationship between tradition and modernity.

Readers in academic circles value Lei's detailed research and analysis of Chinese medicine's transformation during modernization. Reviews highlight his balanced treatment of the tension between traditional Chinese medicine and Western biomedicine. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of complex historical dynamics - Use of primary sources and archival materials - Thorough documentation and academic rigor What readers disliked: - Dense academic writing style that can be difficult for general readers - Heavy use of specialized terminology - Limited accessibility for non-specialists On Google Books, "Neither Donkey Nor Horse" has received positive reviews from academic readers, though specific ratings are limited. The book is frequently cited in academic papers and dissertations focused on Chinese medical history. Public review platforms like Goodreads and Amazon show minimal ratings from general readers, suggesting the work primarily reaches an academic audience. One academic reviewer noted: "Lei provides an invaluable contribution to understanding how Chinese medicine navigated modernity while maintaining its identity."

Neither Donkey nor Horse: Medicine in the Struggle over China's Modernity Examines how Chinese medicine was redefined and modernized in the early twentieth century through the story of Tu Tsung-ming's quest to transform zhongyi into a scientific practice.

Transforming Chinese Medicine: Evolution of Medical Authority and Knowledge in Twentieth Century China Documents the historical transformation of Chinese medicine during the Nationalist period, focusing on the institutionalization and professionalization of Chinese medicine.

Health and Chinese Society: Public Health Education in Republican China Chronicles the development of public health education initiatives in China between 1912-1949, exploring the intersection of medicine, politics, and social reform.

When Chinese Medicine Encountered the State: A Study of the Institute of National Medicine, 1931-1949 Analyzes the establishment and operation of the Institute of National Medicine in Nanjing and its role in legitimizing Chinese medicine under state authority.

Bridie Andrews researches medicine and public health in modern China, with focus on the intersection of Western and Chinese medical traditions. Her work examines how medical knowledge moves across cultural boundaries and impacts social change.

Volker Scheid studies the development of Chinese medicine from the 17th century through contemporary practice. His research combines historical analysis with anthropological methods to trace how Chinese medicine adapts to different contexts.

Judith Farquhar investigates traditional Chinese medicine and its relationship to modernity through ethnographic studies. Her work examines how medical practices reflect cultural values and social organization in China.

Charlotte Furth analyzes gender and medicine in Chinese history, with particular attention to reproductive health and women's bodies. Her research explores how medical concepts shaped understanding of gender in Chinese society.

Ruth Rogaski focuses on public health and medicine in modern East Asia, especially the concept of weisheng (hygiene). Her work traces how ideas about health and cleanliness transformed during China's modernization period.