Agostino Gemelli

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Agostino Gemelli (January 18, 1878 - July 15, 1959) was an Italian physician, Franciscan friar and psychologist who was also the founder and chancellor of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore of Milan (Catholic University of the Sacred Heart) in 1921.

Born 'Edoardo Gemelli in Milan, he carried out neurophysiological and psychological experiments. He focused some of his research on the psychology of the workplace. His Institute of Psychology was the most prominent institution of its kind in Italy. Rome's leading hospital, Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic, is named after him.

Agostino Gemelli is also considered one of the 20th century's most prominent Franciscans. He worked to reconcile Christian faith and modern culture.

Despite his many administrative duties as university chancellor (which he performed until his death), Gemelli's endeavors involved both scientific and philosophical studies. In addition, he wrote extensively on the contemporary meaning of Franciscan spirituality and was a pioneer in actively engaging the laity in the mission of the church.