Memories of Leon A. Orbeli

Abstract

This brief article presents memories of Leon A. Orbeli, a brilliant scientist and public figure, shared by his adopted grandson. The best student and close friend of I. P. Pavlov, member of the Academy of Sciences L. A. Orbeli made an outstanding contribution to science and the country’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.
The most striking achievements of the Orbeli school, which became the most prominent school of thought in Soviet physiological science, include the discovery of the adaptive and trophic role of the sympathetic nervous system, new understanding of the cerebellum’s functions, recognition of the influence of subcortical centres on the functional state of the cerebral cortex, contributions to the study of physiology and pathology of human higher nervous activity and many more significant developments. The L. A. Orbeli school is characterised by rare longevity, a powerful creative force and high practical importance for applications in various sectors of the national economy, including health care, agriculture, military, diving and space exploration. L. A. Orbeli enjoyed wide popularity and deep respect in society due to his true humanism, civic activism and conviction in upholding his beliefs. To this day, the personality of L. A. Orbeli remains a spiritual and moral role model that inspires current and future generations.