I am a big fan of books which provide a historical context to some of the greatest wonders and challenges that we face. Siddarhtha Mukherjee does this well in Emperor of All Maladies (2010), where he explores the story of cancer. Similarly, Susan Wade does a great job with As Far as the Eye Can See: she provides a rich and ambitious exploration of how vision has shaped human history.
The book is divided into five distinct parts and traces a sweeping arc that begins with the biological mechanism of seeing, then journeys through the invention of visual technologies that have transformed societies, from fire to mass media.
The opening chapters provide an accessible yet nuanced introduction to the neuroscience of light. Wade illustrates how our perception is not merely about the optics of our eyes, but is intrinsically influenced by our memory, expectation and cultural background. She provides an interesting discussion on optical illusions and visual misperceptions, as well as reference to #thedress (is it white and gold or blue and black?).
The book’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach. Wade interweaves evolution, anthropology, art and technology with great fluency. She provides many compelling stories which will keep readers engaged. In later sections of the books, she discusses how inventions like spectacles and the printing press extended not only human capability, but also the reach of ideas and power.
Having said that, the book is more thematic than chronological. This can occasionally lead to narrative detours, that feel loosely connected. In my eyes, it makes the book more interesting, but those seeking a linear, text-book style history of ophthalmic science, or clinical milestones, may find it digresses into the broader realm of cultural history. Furthermore, whilst the prose style is engaging, it means that some of the chapters lean heavily on anecdotal storytelling, rather than technical details.
Nonetheless, As Far as the Eye Can See is a very thought-provoking read, which will resonate with many ophthalmologists who are interested in the historical dimensions of their field. It affirms that the eye is not just an organ of vision, but a central character in the human story – one that has both shaped and been shaped by the world it sees.
I would highly recommend this book for the lay reader, medical students considering ophthalmology and ophthalmology residents alike. It provides the opportunity to reflect on the broader impact of our field as clinicians, and realise that the act of seeing is physiologically, psychologically and profoundly human.
