Chapter XI: Means of Removing Quackery, 242

The credulous, ignorant, and novelty-seeking, not the only persons
imposed upon by quackery. Many of the judicious and intelligent
also. Efforts to undeceive the public on this subject have been
often faulty. Too much reliance on popular knowledge of anatomy,
physiology, dietetics, &c. This should only be auxiliary to other
means. Relied upon alone, leads to error. Individual influence of
physicians in showing their friends their mistakes in connecting
cause and effect in medicine. This influence to be exerted upon the
intelligent who uphold quackery. Too much sarcasm and ridicule and
invective used against quackery. Credulity of the public takes a
license from that of medical men. Certificates of physicians in favor
of nostrums. Secret medicines put forth by physicians. Spirit of
quackery in the medical profession. Exhibited in various ways. Quite
prevalent, crippling the profession in its warfare with empiricism.
Reform needed. Can be effected. The stable and intelligent can help
in effecting it, by promoting medical education—by sustaining the
organizations of the profession—by renouncing fallacious means of
estimating professional merit—by favoring strict observance of the
rules of intercourse among physicians. Formation of the American
Medical Association, an important movement in the destruction of
quackery.