ABSTRACT
In 1982, Paul Starr (b. 1949), the noted Harvard sociologist, published his highly praised and Pulitzer prize-wining book, The Transformation o f American M edicine.1 In this work, Starr clearly pres ents his brilliant assessment of the social history of American medicine. He strategically covers the evolution of American medical events from the 1760s to 1980. He advances the knowledge of professional sovereignty in American medicine, he contends with various forces, political and otherwise, in the shaping of the medical enterprise and
he introduces the role of culture and social organizations in medical development and the comprehensive scope of its sublime goals.
