Reflections on relationships between national and world events and development of dermatology. Venezuela as a model

摘要

From a personal vantage, the author tries to understand evolution of medicine and dermatology as relating to political, ideological, and economic factors. He analyzes the evolution of Venezuelan Dermatology research and practice from 1936 to present, relating it to the events that have taken place in that country during this period and integrating the latter to events in the world. There is a close relationship between Venezuelan and US history particularly since the late nineteen-thirties. Physicians in general and dermatologists in particular should not dismiss or just bear the events that take place in the society as a whole. They should try to influence them by acting in harmony with forces that propitiate freedom, rule of law, free inquiry, and meritocracy.