EXPERIMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY. 



INTKODUCTION. 



THE general method of presenting the subject of physiology is the 

 same as that followed in all of the other experimental sciences, viz., 

 the laboratory method, according to which the student is led to dis- 

 cover for himself certain facts and to formulate from his collected 

 data conclusions which represent fundamental principles of the 

 science. 



This method of presenting the experimental sciences chemistry, 

 physics, and the biological sciences, including physiology, psychology, 

 pharmacology, and pathology is an expensive one, both as to the 

 time and the money involved in it; but from the standpoint of 

 pedagogy it is more economical than the text-book method, because 

 it leads directly and surely to definite results. 



In answer to the question as to just what these results are which 

 follow the modern laboratory method of instruction, it may be 

 stated first of all that it cultivates in the student the capacity of close 

 and accurate observation; it affords an opportunity for valuable 

 practice in the systematic recording of the observations; it develops 

 the power of logical thought in drawing tenable conclusions from the 

 observed data; and, in the formulation of conclusions, it stimulates 

 the ability to express the thoughts in concise and unambiguous 

 terms. In the second place, practice of this kind makes the student 

 independent and furnishes him with just the mental equipment 

 needed for later life in whatever line his activities may be directed. 

 If such an education is more important for one profession than 

 another, the medical profession is certainly the one in which its 

 importance is greatest. The physics, chemistry, and biology studied 

 in preparation for medicine, and the physiology, pharmacology, and 

 pathology of the medical course should give the student a most 

 admirable equipment for dealing with the complex problems of 

 clinical practice. 



From what has preceded, it will have been noted that the facts 

 of an experimental science occupy a subordinate position. Facts 

 are only stepping stones leading to principles. Principles are impor- 

 tant. Quite as important as the principles to which the facts lead 



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