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X : Historians and physicians have different social vantage points and have developed widely different professional cultures. This diversity is a distinct feature of their research, their theoretical approaches, and their scholarly methods. The historian's and the physician's points of view both seem to be necessary parts of medical history. The subject itself as well as the scholars involved may profit from teamwork. The author also asks whether historical knowledge in the field of medicine is useful for today's practitioners. Her answer is yes. Historical insight might contribute to a better understanding of day-to-day problems and the complex structures of which physicians are part. Furthermore, it is suggested that physicians will benefit from insights into why their discipline and their professional position have developed in the ways they have. At its best, historical knowledge can contribute to a deeper understanding of the limitations of medicine, and so may add to physicians' ability to adjust their role in line with the present time. Historical knowledge might even contribute to increased respect for other branches of knowledge and for other people's skills and professional problems.

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