St. Charles Republican intelligencer. (St. Charles [Charles City], Iowa) 1856-1857, 1857-03-19

In conclusion, at the risk of being
considered presumptuous and egotistical, l
propose to give you my views upon the prevail
ing Medical practice of the age. Physicians
and the community are chiefly divided upon
the Allopathic Homeopathic and Hydropathic
systems, with here and there some other and
slighter shades of difference.
In very many and essential particulars,
these systems not only differ, but are directly
opposed to each other; thus affording incon-
testible evidence that all cannot he right, and
a fair presumption that no one of them is ex-
clusively So And yet, in the face of these
considerations, many individuals, especially
physicians, strenuously advocate this or that
one, as the only true theory-that all others
are totally or essentially wrong. individuals
who think and observe, know that this is es-
sentially true with many, if not a majority OF
physicians. Truly, in the midst of all this
confusion worse confounded," who shall
decide when "doctors disagreed To re-
flecting mind, does it not appear like the
blind trying to lead the blind Rank medica
skepticism, or what has been derisively bu
expressively denominated state of between
ity," must result.
Need we wonder that the confidence of in
telligent individuals, in the infalibility OF
medical skill is shaken! With me it is a
source of wonder that people have as much
confidence in physicians as they do; but the
support of SO much open and shameless quack-
ery, shows how great is the homage the
world paws to real medical science How
SADLY this confidence is abused by nOstrum
vendors, and even by-not few physicians
At present, medical science-if deserving
the name-is in a transition stage, and tho
wears and ages may elapse before the consum-
nation of the "good time coming" present
appearances indicate that the time is coming
when physicians will be able to show their
patients more excellent way" than any OF
the present exclusive theories.
A practical question is, "What is the duty
of tho enlightened and conscientious physi-
clan, and of community upon this subject!'
To reform the present state of things is
alike the dictate of humanity and philanthro-
py, if not of pecuniary advantage to physi-
cisans. At best, it will be work of consid-
cradle time and for the good of all, and espec-
tally for the credit of the medical profession,
it should begin with its members; and for
the more speedy attainment of the object
sought, concert of action is needed. bigot-
ed, selfish spirit will never lead to such a re-
suit, and a radical ultraism will prove as fatal
to success.
To entitle the healing art to the rank of g
science, it must be progressive in its tenden
cy, and keep pace with other sciences. Were
the majority of the physicians or followers o
each system, to manifest such spirit, present
differences of opinion and practice would di
minish, if not entirely disappear. The prac
tice of medicine or healing would not ther
consist so much of empiricism, but be founded
upon the immutable principles of truth, ane
could not fail to exalt itself and its followers
in the estimation of community. The sum
total of human misery could not fail to be
greatly diminished by the result, and who
that is entitled to the endearing term of the
"beloved physician" would not rejoice at
such a glorious consummation? True sci
ence always tends to assimilate-error to d.
vide
If we have much to learn we cannot begin
too soon, and how can Medical Reform be car
ried on! In various ways, but chiefly by en-
tightening the people upon the la,cs Of and health.
To do this successfully, will frequently re-
quire higher qualifications upon the part OF
physicians (supposing the heart to be right and
let them become teachers, and as far as possible
public teachers Let the public insist upon
this, and in this way can the people scrutinize
different views and different kinds Of practice,
and thus form better estimate of systems and
of men. Physicians of ability need not fear
such test, and in this manner all the several
"pathies" or systems, will prove useful, by
awakening thought, by challenging com