17 JULY 1964, Page 13

DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE

Sus,—No doubt witch doctors are held in even higher esteem in their own societies than are medical men in,ours. Perhaps your correspondent, J. B. Ashe, would be sufficiently impressed by this to consult one; I would not myself. I am certain that the medical profession would not be highly regarded if its members had radiated the pompous, cleverer- than-thou attitude of your correspondent. 'The title "Doctor" is loosely applied,' but I am certain that those qualified to use it do not wish the title to be restricted to the holders of the appropriate de- grees. If the term is to be restricted, it should not be to the medical profession since 'doctor' primarily means 'teacher,' and few medical men can be de- scribed accurately as that. Why anyone should covet the title 'doctor' I am not certain, since it is also the name of a fish and as a verb can mean to tamper with or to adulterate.

If Mr. Ashe wishes to use a diagnostic title, I suggest 'physician': this seems to have just the right overtone of ridiculous self-importance to blend with his letter.

P. M. SHEPPARD •

25 Dement Road, Meols, Cheshire