De causis curatricibus Theses Progymnasticae

entirely drives away, but sometimes it begins to cure, yet cannot complete the cure; sometimes, however, it can do nothing at all, although it always desires preservation, and never ceases to strive for it most intently.

LXXXV.
Since human bodies are subject to so many diseases that, if they were deprived of necessary defenses, the spans of human life would be too short and miserable, God, the most provident and omnipotent preserver of all things created by Him, moved by mercy, has most kindly bestowed upon man, besides that intrinsic ἀντιναμον counter-acting principle, another one that is extrinsic.

LXXXVI.
By His grace and gift, therefore, there exists such a principle, the Medical Art, which investigates and knows not only the composition, powers, and actions of the human body, both as a whole and of its parts, but also takes care of its health and safety, so that it preserves health where it is present, and strives to restore it where it is afflicted by diseases.

LXXXVII.
Nor does it do this simply or immediately, but (no less than the intrinsic principle) it is attended by many serving instruments and aids, and taking the physician as its executor, it exercises and completes its duty, as the condition of the affected body demands, whether by diet, pharmacy, or surgery.

LXXXVIII.
Whence there exist two primary efficient causes for either preserving the health of the human body or curing its diseases, each relying on its own certain instruments.

LXXXIX.
Yet they do not administer this beneficial province with equal condition and dignity, nor in a rash or promiscuous place or order.

XC.
For as the intrinsic principle is prior in dignity and surpasses in origin, so it holds the first place in the skill and artifice of actions. And when it ceases to exist, that other also ceases to be.

XCI.
The extrinsic principle, therefore, exists only for the sake of the intrinsic, and not vice versa. For the physician does not preside over Nature as a commander, but is present as an observer, minister, and deputy.

XCII.
For where Nature operates entirely and freely, the physician stands by only as a spectator or observer; he attempts nothing, but permits the whole action to her, except that he takes care only that external, non-natural causes do not hinder her, if they cannot help her, as much as lies within him.

XCIII.
Where, however, Nature acts, but more weakly and imperfectly, so that she cannot reach where she intends (which the Art teaches us to diagnose by certain signs, along with her other affections), then at last the office of the physician properly begins: to bring her supplies, to promote her efforts, to remove impediments, and to administer strength and support through suitable remedies.