The Physician as a Moral Force in American History

摘要: Before discussing the profession of medicine it may be well to point out that professionalization is itself a fairly recent development. While doctors, lawyers, professors, and other university-trained individuals have existed in Western society for many centuries, concept highly organized group possessing specialized knowledge backed by legally sanctioned monopoly relatively new. In American colonial period, neither law nor could properly called professions. Entrance into both these fields was open anyone, regardless qualifications. case first few tentative efforts establish licensure laws had only limited success, opposition such proposals intensified early 19th century with rise Jacksonian democracy. All measures local state medical societies require minimum educational standards entrance were looked upon askance legislators convinced physicians simply seeking legal improve their financial position. Thus 1850’s existing completely swept away. Even ministry, long prerogative educated class, felt impact egalitarian spirit. Both Great Awakening period Revival Movement emphasized emotionalism revealed religion led multiplication religious sects. so doing they opened ranks ministry all who inspired Holy Spirit.