William Stokes 1804-78: the development of a doctor.

The name of William Stokes is familiar to all who practise medicine. His achievements in clinical medicine, and particularly in cardiology, are examples of clear thought and erudite expression. These qualities were not confined to the practice of clinical medicine; Stokes gave much thought to, and wrote sensitively about, the development of the doctor and his role in society. He believed that liberal education could produce in the student the moral character so necessary for medicine. His views are if anything more relevant in this, the centenary year of his death.