5153. MEDICINE, Theories of.—
Theories
and systems of medicine have been in perpetual
change from the days of the good Hippocrates
to the days of the good Rush, but
which of them is the true one? The present, to
be sure, as long as it is the present, but to
yield its place in turn to the next novelty, which
is then to, become the true system, and is to
mark the vast advance of medicine since the
days of Hippocrates. Our situation is certainly
benefited by the discovery of some new and
very valuable medicines; and substituting those
for some of his with the treasure of facts,
and of sound observations recorded by him
(mixed to be sure with anilities of his day),
we shall have nearly the present sum of the
healing art.—
To John Brazier. Washington ed. vii, 132.
(P.F.,,
18191819)gt;
