Paracelsus

Philippus Aureolus Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim, who would later take on the name Paracelsus, was a Swiss physician and scientist credited with many important discoveries, primarily in the fields of medicine and chemistry. However, his most important legacy was his critique of the scholastic tradition of relying on ancient Greek philosophers as authorities on nature and medicine. He instead promoted observation and experimentation as sources of understanding. In addition, his lectures were given in German to make medical knowledge publicly available, something that further angered the academic establishment. Much of his life was spent traveling throughout Europe, both as an itinerant physician and as a Venetian army surgeon. In 1541 he came to settle in Salzburg where he died within a year.