Review of The Virtuous Physician

[Tina George]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Virtuous Physician" by Elliott B. Martin, Jr..]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Elliott B. Martin, Jr.'s book, The Virtuous Physician: A Brief Medical History of Moral Inquiry from Hippocrates to COVID-19, is an excellent resource that explores the philosophical and historical foundations of medicine, charting its development from earlier times to the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides insight into the quest for and development of medical ethics. The author's research shows that morality, compassion, and ethical duty have endured over time and that the stories of modern medical treatment are still relevant.

The book's greatest strength is that it ties ancient wisdom with today's needs. The author presents a fresh perspective on medicine by fusing an engaging historical analysis with current issues, emphasizing the importance of moral character and scientific competence in treating patients. In one of the essays, the author makes the case that even in the face of a pandemic such as COVID-19, traditional medical expertise is still useful for navigating challenges about global health and policies. The author bases this claim on instances from the Peloponnesian War and Albert Camus's views on the situation.

A blend of humorous anecdotes, real-world examples, and personal narratives makes the book easy to read and comprehend. Medical professionals and researchers studying medical ethics might benefit greatly from this book. Overall, The Virtuous Physician: A Brief Medical History of Moral Inquiry from Hippocrates to COVID-19 effectively connects the separation between medicine and the humanities. The book exhibits thorough research and provides a stimulating reading experience.

There is nothing I dislike about the book. It is professionally and perfectly edited, with no grammatical issues found. Because of the above-mentioned reasons, I rate The Virtuous Physician: A Brief Medical History of Moral Inquiry from Hippocrates to COVID-19 a full 5 out of 5 stars. Anyone interested in the background of medicine and the morality of medical practice should definitely read this book.

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The Virtuous Physician
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