Editorial

Abstract

“The Society dates from the year 1737, when ten medical students agreed to meet weekly in a tavern to hear one of their number read a dissertation on some medical subject. It is the oldest medical students’ society in Great Britain, and the only one to hold a Royal Charter (which was granted by King George III in 1779) The Society has a long and distinguished tradition, and its history is the history of the Edinburgh Medical School. Amongst its past members it boasts the names of Lister, Simpson the chloroform pioneer, Joseph Bell of Palsy fame, Charles Darwin, and Andrew Duncan. Today as in the past the Society’s business comprises the reading of dissertations by members, the arranging of talks given by men eminent in the contemporary medical world and the organising of symposia on subjects of current interest."

Since the founding of the Royal Medical Society in 1737 it has always sought to broaden the educational horizons of its members. Res Medica was first published in 1957 to augment learning and provide a platform on which members ideas and work could be aired out with the walls of the Society’s hall. This edition of Res Medica represents its resurrection after a dormancy period of eight years and it is hoped that this tradition will be supported and maintained in future years. Over this eight year period we have witnessed numerous changes in the practice and teaching of medicine and the Royal Medical Society has remained in touch with these new ideas especially with its recent investment in a variety of computer aidedlearning facilities.