Medicines are in conformity with the constructive principle in Nature insofar as they, in themselves, are not injurious and destructive to the human organism and insofar as they act as tissue foods and promote the neutralization and elimination of morbid matter and poisons.
(17) Are Poisonous Drugs and Promiscuous Surgical Operations in Conformity with the Constructive Principle in Nature?
Poisonous drugs and promiscuous operations are not usually in conformity with the constructive principle in Nature, because:
They suppress acute diseases or reactions (crises), the cleaning and healing efforts of Nature. They are in themselves harmful and destructive to human life. Such treatment fosters the belief that drugs and surgical operations can be substituted for obedience to Nature's Laws and for personal effort and self-help.
(18) Is Metaphysical Healing in Conformity with the Constructive Principle in Nature?
Metaphysical systems of healing are in conformity with the constructive principle in Nature insofar as:
They do not interfere with or suppress Nature's healing efforts. They awaken hope and confidence (therapeutic faith) and increase the inflow of vital force into the organism.
They are not in conformity with the constructive principle in Nature in so far as:
They fail to assist Nature's healing efforts. They ignore, obscure and deny the laws of Nature and defy the dictates of reason and common sense. They substitute, in the treatment of disease, a blind, dogmatic belief in the wonder-working power of metaphysical formulas and prayer for intelligent cooperation with Nature's constructive forces for personal effort and self-help. They weaken the consciousness of personal responsibility.
(19) Is Nature Cure in Conformity with the Constructive Principle in Nature?