Eccentric English physician.

Practiced in Lynn, Norfolk (1716-49), then settled in London. Fellow (1726) and president (1765-66) of the Royal College of Physicians; resigned amid a controversy about the licensing of physicians.

Fellow of the Royal Society (1739). Opposed Pringle’s election to the presidency of the Royal Society, arguing that only mathematicians should be elected to the Council and the presidency (1772).

Educated at Peterhouse College, Cambridge (B.A. 1711, M.D. 1721). Married; one daughter. Knighted (1748).