Editorial In recent years both medical people and laymen have closely examined the dynamics of the medical profession. The result of most studies has been the realization that the profession of medicine is changing as never before. Generally, within our affluent society, the advancement of technical knowledge in all fields has progressed at such a rate that the social structure which supports it is unable to keep pace. The medical profession shares in this problem. But the difficulties of rapid medical-technical advance are compounded by the fact that here, change is taking place within the confines of a group, traditionally resistant to the acceptance of "change" - for the art of medicine teaches conservatism. In this edition of the Journal, attempts have been made to examine some areas that are presently in the process of rapid change. Concepts relating to the role of the doctor are philosophically discussed. This is followed by an account of services available to the physician and ways in which they are utilized; the viewpoint is that of the historian as well as that of the clinician. One area which concerns students directly, that is medical education, has had a full edition of the Journal devoted to it and is not discussed here. Finally the fascinating area of changing concepts of disease is looked at in an article entitled "What is Disease?" The staff of the Journal is very much aware that any attempt to cover such a wide range of subject matter has to be cursory, but it is hoped that the articles may serve as an introduction to areas of medicine which are both topical and interesting.
D.A..K.
MAltCH,
1966
113