Citation
Hormesis
TL;DR
Term 'hormesis' coined by Southam and Ehrlich in 1943
This overview documents the history and modern understanding of hormesis, from Schulz's original observations through the 1943 coining of the term by Southam and Ehrlich. The article explains hormetic stress responses in exercise, fasting, and vaccines - illustrating how the principle applies across biological systems.
The accessibility of this source makes it useful for business readers seeking to understand the biological basis of antifragility without academic paywalls.
Key Findings from contributors (2025)
- Term 'hormesis' coined by Southam and Ehrlich in 1943
- Exercise, fasting, and vaccines demonstrate hormetic effects
- Low-dose stress triggers adaptive responses that exceed the original stressor
- Principle applies across biological systems from cells to organisms