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EDITOR'S CHOICE: Tony Delamothe The way of the world BMJ 2007; 335: 0 [Full text]

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What doctors should tell their patients about CAM

Roger A Fisken   (12 October 2007)

Good Manners

Alexandra C Moore   (22 October 2007)

What doctors should tell their patients about CAM 12 October 2007
Roger A Fisken, Consultant physician Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, DL6 1JG Send response to journal: Re: What doctors should tell their patients about CAM	You are quite right to highlight the problem of excessive tolerance of CAM and your comments are particularly timely in the light of Prof Ernst's recent publication and the criticisms of CAM from the U.S.A. Is it not now time for the BMJ to commission a themed issue entitled "Why doctors should warn their patients to be sceptical of CAM"? Perhaps Prof Ernst might be invited to be guest editor. Competing interests: None declared
Good Manners 22 October 2007
Alexandra C Moore, SpR, Addictions St Bernard's Hospital, Uxbridge Road, Middx UB1 3EU Send response to journal: Re: Good Manners	Tony Delamothe states that "Good manners in the 21st century apparently means suspending judgement". I don't agree. I don't feel obliged to agree with everything I hear or read but do feel obliged to give any dissenting opinion politely and with respect. To do otherwise could amount to bullying. It's good to have opinions and be able to express them freely. Hopefully this would stimulate (lively)debate. Inevitably some will get upset - but many won't and most "dear editor" letters aren't sent. It's a fine line between aggressive and assertive; too far towards the former and you (rightfully?) lose your audience. (Please don't take my comments as in any way relating to the opening paragraph about which I know nothing more than what was written - maybe this is the modern communication problem - the misunderstood email and its twin the "reply all" button) Competing interests: None declared