Osler: Inspirations from a Great Physician

Sir William Osler (1849-1919), one of the world’s most influential physicians at the turn of the twentieth century, remained popular long after his death largely due to his inspirational texts. Regretfully, changing times and literary tastes have lessened the impact of Osler’s addresses despite the timelessness of his ideals and practical advice. Charles Bryan has successfully mended the disfavor in the present volume. Framing the great physician’s message in contemporary, easily accessible terms, he allows modern readers to rediscover the immense appeal and pragmatism of Osler’s invigorating writings.
This volume is based on the author’s conviction that Osler was, above all, a motivator. He set high personal goals, achieved them, and inspired others to do the same. Bryan merges what Osler wrote, said, and did with the main themes of today’s motivational literature--time management, mentoring, positive thinking, and seeking a balanced life are some examples. He also draws upon the great writers--Shakespeare, Cervantes, Montaigne, Plutarch, and others--whom Osler prescribed as bedside reading for his medical students. Osler emerges as a real-life human being, not a paper saint, but a person who sought the best from his culture and knowledge, and managed to give his best in return. Readers will find this book useful not only as an index to Oslerian thought but also as a guide to principle-based yet pragmatic everyday living.

Charles Stone Bryant, M.D., is the Heyward Gibbes Distinguished Professor of Internal Medicine and Chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. He is a fellow and laureate of the American College of Physicians, a fellow of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and a recipient of the William Osler Medal of the American Association for the History of Medicine.