"The history of medicine serves several useful functions today, when doctors and the American health care system confront many challenges. Physicians live and work in an era of escalating expectations, eroding autonomy, and decreasing discretionary time. There is so much—far too much—to know, to learn, and to do. Understandably, many doctors are concerned about the future of medicine as they watch so many powerful political, economic, and social forces transform medical practice, research, and education. In this context, the history of medicine provides useful perspective and teaches valuable lessons. Just as a helps us assess the significance of their symptoms and develop a diagnostic and therapeutic strategy, the history of medicine provides important perspective on present and future challenges and opportunities. ... History also teaches humility. I could cite many examples that apply to institutions, organizations, nations, and entire cultures, but I will focus on humility at the level of the individual. The aphorism “fame is fleeting” applies to medicine, as it does to any other area of human endeavor. Almost all of the most influential physicians and medical scientists of earlier generations are now forgotten. ..."