This book offers a global, historical analysis of the changes and continuities in one of society's basic functions: seeking to protect itself from disease.

Peter N. Stearns is Distinguished University Professor of History Emeritus, at George Mason University, United States. In both teaching and writing he has worked to explore major topics in a world history framework, as in his book on Punishment in World History. This new book, on hygiene, also relates to his interest in the history of emotions, where he has helped to develop a major research field.