Hygienism
Hygienism refers to a broad movement and set of beliefs that emerged in the 19th century, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness, sanitation, and healthy living practices to prevent disease and promote well-being. It was a response to the unsanitary conditions prevalent in rapidly industrializing cities and the prevailing understanding of disease transmission at the time.
Key figures in the hygienist movement advocated for public health reforms such as improved sewage systems,
While some of the scientific underpinnings of early hygienism, like the miasma theory, have been superseded