This is an appreciation of 3 scientists who made historic contribution
s toward understanding bio-electrical activity. The discoveries of Gal
vani and Volta, who were contemporaries two hundred years ago, continu
e as basic supports in advancing the strength and health of all mankin
d. They, nevertheless, had political and scientific disagreements that
still linger. The third scientist was our contemporary, Alexander For
bes who, throughout most of the 20th century, continued to increase ou
r understanding of electrical activity in the nervous system. (C) 1998
Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.