Drunkenness / by George R. Wilson.

  • Wilson, George R. (George Robert)
Date:
1897
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Drunkenness / by George R. Wilson. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    fulfilling to the end the law that functions vary in stability in the order of their evolution. Such an account of intoxication, however, is manifestly theoretical and ideal. Two con- siderations qualify the typical account of the process. Actual observation would establish the fact that, long before the mental functions are completely abolished, there are serious motor impairments ; and, long before move- ment is quite lost, the vital functions of the lowest level are invaded. This is the “compound order’’ (Jackson) of alcoholic nar- cosis. If we represent the three levels by the symbols H, M, and L, we might arbitrarily divide intoxication into three stages, and express them thus:—H1, H2 M1, H3 M2 L1. That is to say, as intoxication proceeds in the lower levels, the higher functions are being o o more and more deeply affected. The second qualification is with regard to the personal equation. The signs of intoxication vary largely with the individual ; account must be taken of his normal condition and character with its habits, manners, and accomplishments. Cases occur in which gastric symptoms occur at a very early stage, or some sign of affection of the liver—symptoms which seem to call in ques-
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