Review of The Virtuous Physician

[Uma gupta]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Virtuous Physician" by Elliott B. Martin, Jr..]

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4 out of 5 stars

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The Virtuous Physician: The Work A Brief Medical History of Moral Inquiry from Hippocrates to COVID-19* by Elliott B. Martin, Jr. provides a written compilation of past and present issues affecting medical practice. The book under discussion presents the reproduction of an actual work that was recovered in a book styled as a medical one but written as a pseudo-Hippocratic text (Precepts), in which the notion of the ‘virtuous physician’ has been depicted.

It must be pointed out that, while the translation provided by Martin is highly detailed and noteworthy, it is more importantly complemented by his remarks. This is the key material of the book; this translation, with its commentary, shows the development of medical ethics from the ancient Greeks up to the present. Another value his discussion brings to the existing historical narrative is his discussion of the crossover from western culture to eastern culture.

The book’s key asset is its robust work on research and the scholarly standpoint that it embraces. Again, this is a precise examination of the text, which can be credited to Martin’s education as a linguist and philologist. On the other hand, his use of technical linguistic terms may prove a bit demanding to an audience that is not conversant with the field.
As to the translation, the essays following it are written in the same academic style. However, one chapter focuses on the history of the word ‘‘physician,’’ and “An Archaeology of Disease” is a reflection on Thucydides’ description of the plague. The final essay, “Crisis: The Article “The Existential Fallout of COVID-19,” gives a reflection on the current state of affairs.
Even though it is a rather complex book, the edition is perfect. No typographical or grammatical mistakes were made, which adds to the publication’s reliability and coherence.

Still, the work is written in a very academic manner, and it is highly laden with technical and lay terminologies, which might reduce its readability by the general public. Some parts of the book might be easier to understand if they are uncomplexed, but this would not undermine the book as a scholarly work.

In conclusion, it can be said that *The Virtuous Physician* is a valuable addition to the literature on medical ethics and the history of medicine. The author has given an impressive account of theories and their real-life application; I would, therefore, give this book 4 out of 5 stars. The vast knowledge is evident across this book; nevertheless, the numerous levels of abstraction and the use of scholar language make it slightly less comprehensible.

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The Virtuous Physician
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[Ajay Pratap Singh Tomar]

You did a great work ...you mentioned both positive and negative side of the review ..you well defined it ..i would definately read it.

[Areena David]

Thank you. The review you wrote made me feel that the book is rich in information. The development of medical ethics from ancient Greek times to the modern era shows a significant shift from Hippocratic principles, such as "do no harm," to advanced standards that encompass complex ethical issues in modern medicine. While ancient ethics focused on the physician's personal virtue, modern ethics emphasize patients' rights, social justice, and the challenges arising from technological and scientific advancements. This evolution reflects a deeper understanding and concern for the multiple dimensions of medical practice and its impacts on individuals and society.

[Sandre Lamar]

This book is a valuable resource for understanding historical and contemporary medical dilemmas.

[Anthony Caleb]

I love how detailed this review was written as you made sure you noted the good and bad sides of this book.

[Slippy Spectrum]

From the review above, it appears that "The Virtuous Physician: The Work A Brief Medical History of Moral Inquiry from Hippocrates to COVID-19" by Elliott B. Martin, Jr. is a valuable and impressive book on medical ethics and the history of medicine. The author provides a detailed translation of a pseudo-Hippocratic text, complemented by insightful commentary. The book also explores the crossover between western and eastern cultures in medical ethics. However, it should be noted that the book is written in a highly academic manner with technical language that may make it less accessible to the general public. Overall, it seems like a worthwhile read for those interested in the subject matter. I would rate it 4 out of 5 stars. Captivating narrative, drew me in completely.

[Adina Lutinger]

This sounds like a very interesting and informative book. Thanks for the great review!

[Liam Patel]

Oh, hey there! So, I read this review about "The Virtuous Physician: The Work A Brief Medical History of Moral Inquiry from Hippocrates to COVID-19" by Elliott B. Martin, Jr. And let me tell ya, it seems like a pretty solid book to dive into! The reviewer mentioned that it provides a detailed exploration of medical ethics throughout history, from the ancient Greeks to modern times.

They also praised the author's scholarly approach and robust research. However, they did mention that the book is quite academic and filled with technical terms, which might make it a bit challenging for the general public to read. But hey, if you're into that kind of stuff, it shouldn't be a problem!

Overall, they gave the book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Not too shabby, huh? So, if you're interested in delving into the fascinating world of medical ethics and history, this book might just be up your alley. Give it a shot and see for yourself! Compelling conflict, drove the story forward.

[Boring Pigeon]

Based on the review, "The Virtuous Physician" seems to be a valuable addition to the literature on medical ethics and the history of medicine. The author provides an impressive account of theories and their real-life application. While the book is written in an academic style and may be challenging for some readers, its thorough research and scholarly approach make it highly reliable. I would rate it 4 out of 5 stars. Gripping suspense, kept me eagerly turning pages.

[Leen282]

This book is surely aimed at readers with already a basic knowledge of medicine. I do feel it is interesting to read about the cross-over between Eastern and Western medicine, as well as the historical development of medicine. Probably too complex for my understanding, but probably useful material for those who want to extend their knowledge on medicine.

[Amarachi Stephanie Ejike]

This was an intellectual read for me.
Elloit B. Martin Jr. knows his craft and it showed in every sentence, grammar and structure of this book. "The Virtuous Physician" is a must-read for Physicians, medical buffs and history lovers. It examined the medical history of moral and ethical practices from Hippocrates to the COVID-19 fallout.

[Rebecca De Figueiredo]

Thank you, your review is very deep and informative, as is the book. You are right; it prob suits those who have an interest in medical history and, perhaps, the Ancient Greek scholars. It’s good to know all this before starting this volume.

[kandscreeley]

This does sound quite complex, but if you can make it through the technical terms, it sounds like it has great benefit. Thanks for the review.

[Sushan Ekanayake]

The Virtuous Physician by Elliott B. Martin, Jr. bridges ancient medical ethics and modern challenges, offering a scholarly deep dive into the evolution of the 'virtuous physician.' Perfect for academics! Congratulations on being BOTD!

[Seetha E]

Elliott B. Martin's "The Virtuous Physician" appears like a comprehensive and reliable book on medical practice in the past and present times; highlighting the importance of moral inquiry in medical practice. A simplified version may appeal to a wider audience. Nonetheless, congratulations on BOTD!
Thank you for cautioning prospective readers about the academic language and your informative review.