Medical ethics : the annual address delivered before the convention of the Connecticut Medical Society, at Hartford, May 23d, 1860 / by Ashbel Woodward.

  • Woodward, Ashbel, 1804-1885.
Date:
1860
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Medical ethics : the annual address delivered before the convention of the Connecticut Medical Society, at Hartford, May 23d, 1860 / by Ashbel Woodward. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by the National Library of Medicine (U.S.), through the Medical Heritage Library. The original may be consulted at the National Library of Medicine (U.S.)

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    beneficent workings of the code. That has prescribed an honorable method of procedure, suited to all the contingencies of medical prac- tice. So equitable are its requirements, so forcibly do they appeal to the conscience, that disagreements between those who have accepted it as a rule of conduct, are well nigh impossible. That its generous provisions for the security of good-will were at once adopted by ac- clamation everywhere throughout the United States, shows how deep and strong was the under-current of genuine charity flowing calmly beneath the surge above. The general observance of rigid rules of ethics and etiquette offers the most available means of counteracting the pernicious results con- sequent on the multitude of our educational institutions. State leg- islatures by injudiciously chartering medical schools have the ability to work unlimited mischief. If competition developed itself solely in endeavors to afford the best facilities for instruction, complaints would be groundless. Such, however, has not been the case. In efforts to gain students, higher aims have fallen prostrate before the whisperings of ambition. Whether struggling doubtfully for existence, or enter- ing the lists to excel in the presentation of a long array of names, our colleges are strongly tempted to lower the standard of qualifications in order that the dread of rejection may drive none away to swell the ranks of less scrupulous rivals. This more than all other causes has antagonized the exertions of the American Association to render the possession of high attainments and thorough culture indispensable to the award of the diploma. The only hope of reformation lies in the reiteration of powerful appeals to the conscience. And in the gradual enlightenment of conscience we put great trust in the wide- spread diffusion of the sentiments embodied in the code. While many in conventions and with the pen are eloquently urging the claims of education, this leaven, disseminated far and near, is also working silently in the popular mind. Since lessons of duty are thus inculcated, we may indulge the confidence that all will soon unite in decreeing that henceforth none unworthy through deficiency of virtue Or knowledge shall receive the honor of our degree. Owing to the laxity of the present system of medical in- struction, and the ease of graduation, currency has been given to the false notion that a slight smattering of general information consti- tutes an ample preparation for attendance upon lectures. The mis- take is preposterous. Indeed to embark in the study of a science or combination of sciences, so profound in principles, so comprehensive in relationships, so subtle in reasonings, sciences to which no truth in 5 I