Essays in medical sociology, Volume 1 (of 2)

ESSAYS IN MEDICAL SOCIOLOGY
BY ELIZABETH BLACKWELL, M.D.
VOLUME I.
LONDON ERNEST BELL, YORK STREET COVENT GARDEN 1902
At the request of friends I have willingly consented to the republication of my writings of past years in a uniform edition.
Truth never grows old, though re-adaptation to different phases of life may be necessary. I shall rejoice if anything I have written in the past may prove helpful to the younger generation of workers, with whom I am in hearty sympathy.
ELIZABETH BLACKWELL, M.D. Hastings, May, 1902 .
This work is written from the standpoint of the Christian physiologist.
The essence of all religions is the recognition of an Authority higher, more comprehensive, more permanent than the human being. The characteristic of Christian teaching is the faith that this Supreme Authority is beneficent as well as powerful. The Christian believes that the Creative Force is a moral force, of more comprehensive morality than the human being that it creates. Under the symbol of a wise and loving parent—the most just, efficient, and attractive image that we know of—we are encouraged to regard this unseen Authority as being in direct relation with every atom of creation, and as desirous of drawing each atom into progressively higher forms of existence.
The Christian physiologist, therefore, knowing that there is a wise and beneficent purpose in the human structure, seeks to find out the laws and methods of action by means of which human function may accomplish its highest use.
The task can only be carried out gradually. Ultimate function is not revealed by structure, nor ultimate use by function.
The empty arteries did not suggest the circulation of the blood to ancient physiologists, nor did the curious arrangements of the intestinal canal explain the complicated function of digestion. Ignorance of facts, preconceived notions, or fanciful theories as to ‘vital spirits,’ ‘cold and hot humours,’ etc., long delayed the attainment of correct knowledge of physiological facts.