Medical Genius or Follower? The Life of Theodor Fahr

The German pathologist Theodor Fahr gained international recognition primarily through his research in renal, vascular, and neurological pathology. One of his most influential contributions was the description of a disease later named after him, characterized by symmetrical calcium deposits in the brain, which he first presented scientifically in 1930. Earlier, together with Franz Volhard, he had already laid important foundations for modern nephrology by developing a new classification system for kidney diseases that remains significant to this day. 

After his death, Fahr remained a well-known figure, especially in Germany. However, for a long time his medical achievements were the main focus, while his role during the National Socialist era received little attention. It was only around 2015 that this aspect gained greater public interest, particularly in the context of debates about streets named after him. This discussion is part of a broader reassessment of historical figures who were active during the Nazi period.

Fahr was born in 1877 and studied medicine at several universities, including attending lectures by Rudolf Virchow. Although he initially intended to become an internist, he ultimately chose pathology. His career developed slowly at first but gained momentum through his scientific work and leadership positions. His collaboration with Volhard was especially significant, leading to major advances in kidney research. Despite his success, Fahr suffered from severe depression beginning in the 1920s, which also affected his work.

During the National Socialist era, Fahr adapted to the system to a certain extent. He joined a National Socialist organization and signed a declaration of loyalty to Adolf Hitler, although he never became a member of the NSDAP nor played a significant political role. Nevertheless, his scientific career continued and in 1938 he became president of the German Pathological Society. Problematic aspects include his institutional involvement with the regime, such as handling bodies from concentration camps, although the extent to which these were used for research remains unclear.

After the Second World War, Fahr was initially rehabilitated and allowed to continue teaching, but he soon lost his position due to a controversial statement. A few days later, in October 1945, he took his own life, with his long-standing mental illness likely contributing alongside professional difficulties.

His attitude toward National Socialism appears contradictory. On one hand, his political engagement was limited, and there is no clear evidence of direct involvement in crimes. On the other hand, he adapted to the regime and showed no clear opposition. His attitude toward Jewish colleagues is also ambivalent: while he supported some individuals, such as his student Paul Kimmelstiel, antisemitic statements appear in his later writings.

Overall, his life presents a complex picture. Fahr was neither a convinced National Socialist nor clearly a perpetrator, but also not a resolute opponent of the regime. His significant scientific contributions thus stand alongside a problematic political and personal stance, which explains the ongoing debate about his legacy.

Sources: 

Evers, M. J., Gross, D., & Kaiser, S. (2021). Just “one of so many”? The pathologist Theodor Fahr (1877–1945) and his ambivalent relationship to National Socialism. Pathology - Research and Practice, 224, 153488. Source

Heidland, A., Gerabek, W., & Sebekova, K. (2001). Franz Volhard and Theodor Fahr: Achievements and controversies in their research in renal disease and hypertension. Journal of Human Hypertension, 15(1), 5–16. Source