An Address on the Rapid Diffusion of a Knowledge of Advances in Ophthalmic Therapeutics
J. Hutchinson · BMJ · 1883
AFTER some detailed observations with regard to the business of the Society, Mr. Hutchinson proceeded as follows:-The improvement of ophthalmic knowledge is unquestionably our first and by far our principal duty.I cannot but think, however, that it is possible that, in the fuature, such societies as ours may find another kind of work open to them, which is only second in importance.I allude to the systematic and strenuous endeavours to diffuse rapidly amongst the profession at large, for the prompt benefit of our patients universally, all items of new knowledge which may have been obtained.There are many directions in which thoughtful help might be given towards this end.AVe may, in the first place, endeavour to induce as many as possible to join us, and attend our demonstrations and receive our volumes.We shall not, lhowever, in this way, reach any excepting London residents.We might, for in- stance, bring forward for discussion, occasionally, the commoner forms of eye-disease, such as are scarcely likely to be often made the themes of original communications.Not only would this help others, but it is very desirable, for our own good, that we should occasionally make recapitulation in public of our knowledge of common things, and thas ascertain how far our opinions have ad-