Doctor Quote by George Carlin
“Isn’t it a bit unnerving that doctors call what they do “practice”?”
About This Quote
Source Stand‑up routine: “Class Clown” (1992)
The term “practice” for doctors is ironic because it suggests trial and error in a field where mistakes can be fatal.
In simple terms: Doctors calling their work “practice” feels uneasy.
Question the language of expertise.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- medical training
- patient communication
- policy debate
- healthcare education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you trust professionals who call their work “practice”?
- How does language shape our perception of competence?
The term also acknowledges the need for continual learning despite expertise.