The art of medicine was to be properly learned only from its practice and its exercise.
Thomas SydenhamRead
Gout, unlike any other disease, kills more rich men than poor, more wise men than simple. Great kings, emperors, generals, admirals and philosophers have all died of gout.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Gout disproportionately affects the wealthy and intelligent, showing that no status can protect one from disease.
This quote by Thomas Sydenham highlights the irony of gout as a disease that is more prevalent among the affluent and learned individuals. It underscores the idea that wealth and wisdom do not shield a person from ailments, signaling the universal nature of suffering and mortality regardless of someone's social or intellectual standing.
Themes
GoutDiseaseHealthWealthMortalityWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about health inequities, this quote can be used to illustrate that diseases can affect anyone regardless of their status.
More from Thomas Sydenham
All quotes →Disease is nothing else but an attempt on the part of the body to rid itself of morbific matter.
Thomas SydenhamRead
I watched what method Nature might take, with intention of subduing the symptom by treading in her footsteps.
Thomas SydenhamRead
Lastly, he must remember that he himself hath no exemption from the common lot, but that he is bound by the same laws of mortality, and liable to the same ailments and afflictions with his fellows.
Thomas SydenhamRead
The arrival of a good clown exercises a more beneficial influence upon the health of a town than twenty asses laden with drugs.
Thomas SydenhamRead
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