Believe Quote by William Osler
“We doctors have always been a simple trusting folk. Did we not believe Galen implicitly for 1500 years and Hippocrates for more than 2000?”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Principles and Practice of Medicine, 1892
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.
