Medical Societies and the Scottish Enlightenment

Citation

Jenkinson J (2020) Medical Societies and the Scottish Enlightenment. In: Wallace MC & Rendall J (eds.) Association and Enlightenment: Scottish Clubs and Societies, 1700-1830. Studies in Eighteenth century Scotland. Lewisburg Pennsylvania: Bucknell University Press, pp. 69-84. https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/bucknell/association-and-enlightenment/9781684482665

Abstract
The formation of clubs and societies was an integral part of the development of the medical profession in the Scottish Enlightenment. Medical associations and societies were formed for varied reasons. As well as advancing medical knowledge, they also provided forums for further education, opportunities to progress the profession, and chances for networking through regular meetings. In addition, the more “social” medical clubs that are discussed in this chapter provided a convivial atmosphere in which physicians and surgeons could cooperate rather than compete.