About Quote by Sherwin B. Nuland
“Nosology (from the Greek 'nosos,' meaning 'disease,' and 'logos,' referring to 'study') is not a sport for the timid, and certainly not for those so scrupulous about rules and order that they demand consistency in all things.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Wisdom of Medicine by Sherwin B. Nuland, 1997
Studying disease classification demands boldness and flexibility, not timid adherence to strict rules.
In simple terms: Medical classification requires courage, not rigidity.
Key Takeaway
Embrace uncertainty in complex fields.
Themes
medicine
science
risk
confidence
discipline
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
analytical
reflective
When to use this quote
- diagnostic work
- research design
- policy making
- medical education
Key Concepts
nosology
taxonomy
clinical reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance consistency with adaptability?
- When does caution become a barrier?
A Different Perspective
Rigid rule‑following can hinder innovative thinking.
