Actually, at one time they did. Many surgical tools were designed and actually manufactured (the first prototypes) by surgeons and dentists. For instance, the hypodermic syringe, anesthetics, the air_powered dental drill, forceps, etc. Many were invented by a Polish professor at a teaching hospital during the 19th century and some even earlier by a French surgeon during the mid-1700s. By the way, wasn't it a slave that actually had the idea of giving a sample of an infection to people to build up their immunity? I think his owner got the credit for it though.


>Rick,
>
>I don't disagree with anything you say. However, I think it was Wells who said "the essence of civilization is specialization". The ability to focus is important. Architects don't make the paper for their blueprints, nor surgeons the instruments they use. Neither of them would see much value if offered the ability to do so. Seems a reasonable POV to me.
>
>Regards
>
>j.R