Cures Quote by Francis Bacon
“Doctor Johnson said, that in sickness there were three things that were material; the physician, the disease, and the patient: and if any two of these joined, then they get the victory; for, Ne Hercules quidem contra duos [Not even Hercules himself is a match for two]. If the physician and the patient join, then down goes the disease; for then the patient recovers: if the physician and the disease join, that is a strong disease; and the physician mistaking the cure, then down goes the patient: if the patient and the disease join, then down goes the physician; for he is discredited.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Advancement of Learning, 1605
Physician, disease, and patient are three essential elements; when two align, the third is defeated, highlighting the importance of collaboration.
In simple terms: Collaboration among two of three parties defeats the third.
Align two parties to overcome the third.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- clinical practice
- public health policy
- teamwork training
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure ethical collaboration?
- What risks arise when parties misalign?
The model oversimplifies complex medical realities.