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.