Monday, October 27, 2003

Scholars Argue Over Legacy of Surgeon Who Was Lionized, Then Vilified. One would be hard pressed to find a more controversial figure in the history of medicine than J. Marion Sims. By Barron H. Lerner. [New York Times: Science] How can we determine whether someone's motivations were appropriate 150 years after the fact. Putting anyone on a pedestal sets them up to fall. I especially liked the idea of putting up companion statues of the women who were the experimental subjects. Experimentation on humans is wrong if that is what was done. One could question, even today, the reality of informed consent. When a loved one is facing a death sentence how many would not take a chance on experimental therapy. Does the patient/family considering these trials really understand the risks involved? How impartial is the doctor who benefits from each patient enrolled? I am a strong supporter of patients enrolling in clinical trials, but who is to say our current process is the most ethical path? Will today's physicians be vilified in 2153? 8:34:57 PM

Well I love books and I love technology and I still can't quite fathom Radio the way I would like to. So the perfect solution to my problems: Radio Userland Kick Start by Rogers Cadenhead. I must buy a copy even if Dave doesn't like Amazon. 8:08:44 PM