De lethargo theses

VIII.

But since the sensus communis, which is a certain instrumental action, is impaired, it follows that in this respect the brain is affected, not insofar as it is a similar part, but insofar as it possesses an organic disposition. For it is impossible that either a similar disease should primarily and per se impair an organic function, or that an organic disease should impair a similar function.

IX.

However, the fever, which is always joined to this somnolence, argues that the similar disposition is also impaired. For how would the brain communicate an intemperies to the heart, unless it had first been impressed upon the brain itself?

X.

Therefore, the brain is affected by lethargy primarily, not so much in that it is a similar part, as in that it is an organic one.

XI.

Furthermore, with the subject posited, the definition is not yet obtained; rather, a cause is additionally required, without whose presence lethargy does not exist in the brain. Physicians (with Galen consenting in Book 13 of the Methodus Medendi) establish this to be putrefying phlegm.

XII.

For this possesses a double aspect, since it not only vitiates the instrumental disposition but at the same time produces an intemperies through putrid heat.

XIII.

Since, however, lethargy is a compound disease, it follows that the definition which declares its essence must also be established as double or compound.

XIIII.

It may therefore be expressed by such a definition: that it be said to be a somnolent disposition of the brain, with a hot intemperies of the heart.