Historian Susan Wise Bauer tells the story of how, across centuries—from ancient civilizations to modern medicine—humans have tried to make sense of illness through evolving frameworks, from divine punishment to bodily imbalance to germs. Drawing on historical accounts and cultural analysis, she explores how fear, suffering, and uncertainty shape not only medical knowledge but also trust in authority and social behaviors—and ultimately shows that our present-day struggles with medicine and trust are not new, but part of a long, repeating human story.

This episode of The Nocturnists is sponsored by Claimable.

Every year, insurers deny over 850 million claims in the United States. Fewer than one percent are ever appealed. Claimable exists to change that, with an online platform that helps patients overturn unjust denials and restore access to the care they need. With Claimable's easy to use appeal builder, patients create and submit personalized, expert-backed appeals combining clinical, policy, and legal evidence into powerful coverage arguments. If you or someone you know has ever lost access to a medication because of an insurance denial, Claimable was built for that moment. To learn more, and explore how Claimable works with partners in healthcare to expand access, visit www.getclaimable.com

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