Which three sentences in the excerpt from “On the Mode …

History Questions
Short Answer
Step by Step Solution
History Questions

In the following excerpt, the author’s purpose is to inform his readers about what he has discovered about cholera and to argue that the disease spreads in a specific way. Which three sentences in this excerpt highlight information that the author uses to show that the disease spreads in a different manner than was assumed at the time? On the Mode of Communication of Cholera by John Snow (excerpt) It used to be generally assumed, that if cholera were a catching or communicable disease, it must spread by effluvia given off from the patient into the surrounding air, and inhaled by others into the lungs. This assumption led to very conflicting opinions respecting the disease. A little reflection shows, however, that we have no right thus to limit the way in which a disease may be propagated, for the communicable diseases of which we have a correct knowledge spread in very different manners. . . . Pathology Indicates Manner of Communication A consideration of the pathology of cholera is capable of indicating to us the manner in which the disease is communicated. If it were ushered in by fever, or any other general constitutional disorder, then we should be furnished with no clue to the way in which the morbid poison enters the system; whether, for instance, by the alimentary canal, by the lungs, or in some other manner, but should be left to determine this point by circumstances unconnected with the pathology of the disease. But from all that I have been able to learn of cholera, both from my own observations and the descriptions of others, I conclude that cholera invariably commences with the affection of the alimentary canal. The disease often proceeds with so little feeling of general illness, that the patient does not consider himself in danger, or even apply for advice, till the malady is far advanced.

Short Answer

John Snow challenged the miasma theory by demonstrating that cholera spreads primarily through contaminated water, emphasizing the importance of understanding disease transmission pathways. His intervention during the 1854 cholera epidemic, particularly the removal of the Broad Street pump handle, significantly reduced the outbreak and established the foundation for modern public health practices focused on clean water.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand John Snow’s Argument

John Snow challenges the prevalent miasma theory of disease transmission by proposing that cholera spreads primarily through contaminated water, following a fecal-oral route. His work emphasizes that diseases can propagate in diverse ways and highlights the importance of understanding the pathways involved in disease transmission. By shifting the focus from airborne contagion to waterborne sources, Snow set the groundwork for modern public health practices.

Step 2: Analyze Key Sentences from His Work

Snow’s text reveals pivotal insights into how cholera is transmitted and disputes prior beliefs. He provides three critical sentences that serve as evidence against the miasma theory:

  • “No right thus to limit the way in which a disease may be propagated…”
  • “A consideration of the pathology of cholera is capable of indicating…”
  • “Cholera invariably commences with the affection of the alimentary canal.”

These points underline the necessity to reassess how we understand disease spread, particularly infectious diseases like cholera.

Step 3: Evaluate Snow’s Intervention Impact

During the 1854 cholera epidemic, Snow’s proactive approach significantly mitigated the disease’s spread. His intervention included removing the handle from the Broad Street pump, which was supplying contaminated water. This decisive action not only curtailed the immediate outbreak but also highlighted the importance of clean water in disease prevention and helped reshape public health policy towards safer drinking water practices.

Related Concepts

Miasma Theory

Defunct medical theory that suggested diseases were caused by “bad air” or miasmas

Fecal-Oral Route

Method of disease transmission where pathogens are ingested via contaminated food or water

Clean Water

Water that is free from contaminants and safe for human consumption, essential for preventing disease.

Table Of Contents
  1. In the following excerpt, the author's purpose is to inform his readers about what he has discovered about cholera and to argue that the disease spreads in a specific way. Which three sentences in this excerpt highlight information that the author uses to show that the disease spreads in a different manner than was assumed at the time? On the Mode of Communication of Cholera by John Snow (excerpt) It used to be generally assumed, that if cholera were a catching or communicable disease, it must spread by effluvia given off from the patient into the surrounding air, and inhaled by others into the lungs. This assumption led to very conflicting opinions respecting the disease. A little reflection shows, however, that we have no right thus to limit the way in which a disease may be propagated, for the communicable diseases of which we have a correct knowledge spread in very different manners. . . . Pathology Indicates Manner of Communication A consideration of the pathology of cholera is capable of indicating to us the manner in which the disease is communicated. If it were ushered in by fever, or any other general constitutional disorder, then we should be furnished with no clue to the way in which the morbid poison enters the system; whether, for instance, by the alimentary canal, by the lungs, or in some other manner, but should be left to determine this point by circumstances unconnected with the pathology of the disease. But from all that I have been able to learn of cholera, both from my own observations and the descriptions of others, I conclude that cholera invariably commences with the affection of the alimentary canal. The disease often proceeds with so little feeling of general illness, that the patient does not consider himself in danger, or even apply for advice, till the malady is far advanced.

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