Trained human understanding is one of the most important tools in the doctor's handbag, Dr. William W. Frye told 1951 graduates of the Louisiana State university medical school at their pre-graduation program last week.
Mental capacity and a gruelling period of education and training are prerequisites for all who would practice medicine," the School of Medicine dean told the graduates; "but without the higher understanding of other human beings, which comes with the development of character and personality, they fall far short of the goal of becoming true physicians." The modern physician's community responsibility. does not end with his readiness to answer sick calls, said Dr. Frye.
"You will be looked upon as a com-imunity leader, advisor to the lawyer, judge, banker, merchant, business man—-in matters of health as well as other community activities."
Wars have never been fought over medicine, he reminded the class, and the profession is a true force for democracy because it is concerned with the individual welfare of all human beings.
The LSU graduating class of 97 is the largest in the school of -medicine history.
