stances that affect him. The important thing 
is that he should possess clear and correct in- 
formation with regard to the effects of tobacco 
as far as such have been scientifically deter- 
mined; and from the observation of its effects 
on his own organism to determine whether in 
his own case the practice is beneficial or other- 
wise and to what extent it may be pursued if 
he desires to smoke. 
We, therefore, purpose to submit the facts 
which have been determined by the most careful 
scientific investigators and others of high stand- 
ing, who, from their experience in the investiga- 
tion of the causes of disease, are best qualified 
to offer opinions which may be accepted as 
authoritative. 
A perusal of the vast amount of literature 
both for and against the use of tobacco brings 
out certain points very largely. First, in the 
case of the opponents, the most sweeping state- 
ments are made without a particle of scientific 
proof in support of them, by persons who are in 
no way qualified to make such statements. 
Statistics are quoted most recklessly and ac- 
cepted as conclusive, although in most cases 
there is no logical connection between the mat- 
ter of the statistics and the absolute effects of 
tobacco. If there is a question of a certain 
condition, it is not sufficient to show that the 
174 
