The chain of scientific discovery: the critical role of the physician-scientist.

Abstract

Welcome, and thank you for joining us for the 2001 Scientific Sessions. It is a pleasure and a privilege for me to stand before you today, an honor for which I am indeed grateful. For many years, pioneers of scientific achievement and distinguished colleagues have gathered in this forum to share knowledge, discoveries, and insights. As a result, the Scientific Sessions have grown to be the largest gatherings of cardiovascular scientists and healthcare professionals in the world. Joining together here, we are of one mind in our mission; though perhaps differing in some areas, we share a strong mutual respect. This professionalism, dedication, and tireless work ethic ultimately bring about extraordinary outcomes. As healers, scientists, and practitioners of medicine, we are challenged with fighting disease, curing illness, and bettering the human condition. However, as you are all too painfully aware, since September 11th, we have been in the midst of a crisis that plagues our world. It is an environment that makes it difficult to fully focus our attentions on fighting heart disease and stroke, jobs that are certainly daunting enough. It is my fervent desire that our shared value of human life will one day be shared throughout the world. I am frequently reminded of John Lennon’s famous song “Imagine,” where he says, “Imagine all the people, sharing all the world.” His lyrics remind us of our purpose this week, which is the free and open sharing of research and discoveries, asking of questions, and seeking of answers, all with the goal of making our world a better place. In our profession, we are sometimes called to be teachers and sometimes to be students. In some cases, we may have the answers that others seek; at other times, we seek answers from those who may be wiser or more …