Harvey Cushing (1869-1939): Polymath, Psychopath or both? Harvey Cushing is regarded by many as the father of modern Neurosurgery and within this specialty he is credited with pioneering techniques in tumour surgery and the description of physiological changes arising from raised intracranial pressure (the Cushing reflex). In addition to major contributions within his own specialty, Cushing is revered for his contributions to Endocrinology, Anaesthesia and Military Surgery. In 1912 Cushing reported an endocrinological syndrome caused by a malfunction of the pituitary gland which he termed ‘polyglandular syndrome’, a disease which now bears his name. He is credited with the development of the anaesthetic chart and blood pressure management in anaesthetic practice. He employed the first independent neurosurgical anaesthetist in recognition of the crucial role anaesthesia had to his surgical outcomes. During WW1, Cushing persuaded the American Surgeon General to deploy specialist surgical teams to treat casualties and brought his expertise as senior consultant in neurological surgery for the American Expeditionary Forces to the western front in 2017. Further accomplishments include a Pulitzer prize for his biography of Sir William Osler and multiple Nobel prize nominations. Behind these achievements was a controversial figure. Various biographers have reported a Jekyll and Hyde personality addicted to work and tobacco. Cushing was a colourful character and a prolific writer assisted by several female secretaries, typists, stenographers, medical artists and photographers known collectively as ‘Cushing’s harem’. Regardless of his personality, Cushing was undeniably gifted and should be celebrated for his vast contributions across many disciplines.