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We doctors have always been a simple trusting folk. Did we…

“We doctors have always been a simple trusting folk. Did we not believe Galen implicitly for 1500 years and Hippocrates for more than 2000?” quote by William Osler
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“We doctors have always been a simple trusting folk. Did we not believe Galen implicitly for 1500 years and Hippocrates for more than 2000?”

William Osler

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He critiques the blind trust in ancient authorities, urging critical thinking in medicine.

In simple terms: Question long‑standing medical authority.

Key Takeaway

Practice medicine with skepticism.

Themes

critical thinking medical history skepticism

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • clinical decision making
  • medical education
  • research evaluation

Key Concepts

evidence‑based medicine scientific method

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can modern doctors balance tradition and innovation?
  • What safeguards prevent new dogmas?
A Different Perspective

Changing entrenched beliefs can be slow.

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