Charles Maclean and the Relocation of Medical Debate in the Early Nineteenth Century
Author Information
Author(s): Catherine Kelly
Primary Institution: University of Oxford
Hypothesis
Did Charles Maclean's efforts to shift the contagion debates from the medical to the public sphere influence the outcome of parliamentary inquiries?
Conclusion
Maclean's tactics successfully challenged the medical establishment's authority by relocating the contagion debate to the public sphere.
Supporting Evidence
- Maclean's efforts led to parliamentary inquiries in 1819 and 1824 regarding contagion and quarantine.
- His writings challenged the medical establishment's views and promoted a public discourse on epidemic diseases.
- Maclean's theories were influenced by his experiences in India and his commitment to empirical methods.
Takeaway
Charles Maclean wanted to change how people thought about diseases like the plague, moving the discussion from doctors to regular people and politicians.
Methodology
The paper examines historical accounts and debates surrounding Maclean's influence on the contagion discussions in the early 1800s.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in interpreting historical accounts and the motivations of Maclean and his contemporaries.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on Maclean's role and may not fully encompass the broader context of the contagion debates.
Participant Demographics
The study discusses Maclean's background as a physician and his interactions with various political and medical figures.
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