Activity Quote by Jacob Bigelow
“Homeopathy may be defined as a specious mode of doing nothing. While it waits on the natural progress of disease and the restorative tendence of nature on the one hand, or the injurious advance of disease on the other, it supplies the craving for activity, on the part of the patient and his friends, by the formal and regular administration of nominal medicine. Although homeopathy will, at some future time, be classed with historical delusions.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Elements of Materia Medica, 1818
Homeopathy is portrayed as an ineffective practice that merely gives the illusion of action while relying on natural disease progression.
In simple terms: Homeopathy is seen as a useless, placebo‑like treatment.
Key Takeaway
Recognize real, evidence‑based care.
Themes
skepticism
medicine
placebo
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
analytical
informative
When to use this quote
- clinical decision making
- patient counseling
- medical education
Key Concepts
alternative medicine
natural healing
patient expectation
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the perceived activity more comforting than actual healing?
- How can clinicians address patients’ desire for active treatment?
A Different Perspective
Lacks scientific validation and may delay effective treatment.
