Dr. Henry Cowles

Biography

Henry M. Cowles is an Associate Professor in the Department of History at the University of Michigan. He specializes in the history of science and medicine, focusing on topics such as psychology, addiction, self-help, and expertise. Cowles has interests in the material history of mental health, particularly in the context of 19th-century history, analyzing the significance of daily routines and the influence of persuasive technologies in Silicon Valley. His current academic projects explore the evolution of the scientific method, the historical perspectives on boredom in American psychology, and critical examinations of archival objectivity. As a noted historian, he is affiliated with both the Science, Technology, & Society Program and the Doctoral Program in Anthropology and History at the University. In addition to his scholarly work, he also teaches undergraduate courses in American history, emphasizing the intersections of mind and brain with cultural contexts. Cowles's scholarly contributions include publications with Harvard University Press and articles in significant academic journals.

Research Interests