Abstract

The man who has on open mind can always learn something from discussion. In dealing with complicated subject matters such as that of the proper treatment of wounds, trustworthy conclusions are ereached only when we have been compelled to look at the facts from opposite points of view. And when in controversy one man sets up a thesis, and the next man disputes it, these conflicting suggestions may have intellectual value. They may tend to make our mental outlook less narrow, and make us balance alternatives. But when all is said and one, only a small minority of mankind have their minds of clarified by polemical controversy. The greater number come away confused and in perplexity as to where the truth lies.