So much of the talk about placebos revolves around alternative and complementary therapy, and while I'm sure placebos are a factor, they're also a factor in mainstream medicine too.
I was heartened to read an article in The Times on Feb 18th by a practicing doctor, Dr Copperfield.
“Sick people get better more quickly if they are given a definite diagnosis, even one that is made up on the spot by translating their presenting symptoms into Latin.”
I'd like to quote the whole article, but I can't for copyright reasons, but it's well-worth seeking out.
