Article September 15, 1906 Issue

It is not unusual in these days to read in modern...

H. Cornell Wilson

Democrat and Chronicle

It is not unusual in these days to read in modern medical magazines discussions on such subjects as "suggestive therapeutics," "faith-healing," "mesmerism," etc. In fact hardly a month passes without an article in one or another of the medical periodicals devoted to healing by mental means. The general impression seems to prevail among these writers that the several systems of medicine must needs avail themselves of the help which the activities of the human mind seem to promise. Indeed they berate the backwardness of their fellow-practitioners in not appropriating such valuable therapeutical agents.

A singular fact in connection with the present-day discussions by medical men above referred to is that as a general rule they observe no differences whatever between the various methods of healing without drugs, usually classing them all together under the head of "mind cure" or "suggestion." This indiscriminate plan of classification works a distinct injustice, notably in the case of Christian Science. Moreover it gives sure evidence of a very superficial line of investigation, whereas there is great occasion, as there should be a demand, for the deepest and most profound study; to the end that the conscientious physician may not unconsciously adopt means which may ultimately do more harm than good both for himself and his patients. It is plain to those who have given earnest consideration to the subject of mental healing, especially to those who have carefully investigated the teachings of Christian Science, that there exists the widest possible difference between "suggestion," "hypnotism," "mental science," "faith cure," and Christian Science, and this difference is not one of name merely. The very premise on which Christian Science is founded separates it fundamentally from all other systems, and gives those who practise it the two-fold advantage of quickening the moral sensibilities of mankind, by awakening them spiritually, while healing their sickness. In Christian Science one is healed of sickness and of sin by the same means.

What I have said above is prompted by an article headed "Views on Faith Healing" in the Democrat and Chronicle of Aug. 19, taken from the London Globe, and which deals with some observations in The Practitioner for June. That the "mechanism" or modus operandi of Christian Science is not in the least like the means employed by mental systems of cure and faith cure may be proven by any honest investigator. For this reason the medical man owes it to himself, as well as to those who accept his advice, to first understand and apply Christian Science before classifying it with agencies which he regards as accounted for on a purely psychological basis.

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