Human Body, Existence, and Design: An Insight into Yellapragada SubbaRow’s Philosophy
Abstract
In his eponymous poem, Robert Frost conceptualizes design as a fundamental aspect of human existence, exploring the interplay between life’s grand forces and the underlying philosophical structure of existence. This notion is paralleled in the human body, viewed as a living embodiment of design, encompassing both external appearance and internal complexity. Biomedical science, particularly significant during the pandemic, has reshaped our comprehension of the human body, influencing lifestyle and societal perceptions. Yellapragada SubbaRow, an Indian-born American biochemist, made groundbreaking contributions to medical science, including the development of methotrexate for cancer treatment, the application of folic acid in prenatal care, and the creation of a versatile antibiotic. These advancements, alongside the pandemic-induced shift in societal outlook, have altered the approach to human health and wellness. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has drawn the world’s attention to the ethical and aesthetic dimensions of biomedical practice, SubbaRow’s contributions may serve as excellent exemplars of integrating scientific innovation with philosophical inquiry, advocating for an approach that harmonizes scientific rigor with ethical integrity to foster civilizational progress. The study contends that design transcends mere tools and structures, embodying the fusion of human perception and intellect, which drives creativity and innovation essential for human evolution. Through examining SubbaRow’s philosophy, this article seeks to elucidate the post-pandemic paradigm shift in human existence and its ethical implications.
Keywords
Human Body; Eixistence; Ethics; Design; Yellapragada SubbaRow
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Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi, India India
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7409-196X
Dr. Avani Bhatnagar presently holds the position of Assistant Professor at Dyal Singh College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, India. Prior to this role, she served for four and a half years as an Assistant Professor in the Department of English at the Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, under Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi, India. Dr. Bhatnagar was awarded her Ph.D. in 2019, and her scholarly endeavors primarily explore the thematic presence and influence of Romanticism within literature and across various fields of knowledge. Her research aims to delineate the romantic narratives associated with figures identified as Radicals and Revolutionaries, extending across diverse intellectual landscapes.
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