CHAPTER X.

POPULAR ESTIMATES OF PHYSICIANS, 222

No class of men so erroneously estimated as physicians. Object of this chapter to show how the community can judge of them correctly. Education of physicians—evidences of it. Medical education practically despised by a large portion of the public. Standing of medical man among his brethren criterion of merit. Difficulty in getting their unbiased opinions. Certain mental qualities essential to skill in the practice of medicine. How the common observer can detect and measure these qualities. Observe them as exhibited in regard to subjects which he understands in common with the physician. Illustration from surgery. Illustrations of same truth in relation to various characteristics of medical men. Formation of opinions—credulous—sceptical—hasty and changeable—cautious and tenacious—strong and ardent. How can test one’s habits of observation. Asking many questions no sure proof of accurate and minute observation. Enquiries of different physicians about an article of curiosity. Same rule for judging of the measures of the physician, as we have applied to his opinions. A genius in medicine. Innate skill. Rules which have been pointed out for estimating comparative merits of physicians not in common use with the public. A change necessary in this respect. Cannot easily be effected. Many physicians would be opposed to such a change—would rather false tests continue to be applied. But the change can be effected.