Empirical versus Evidence-Based Medicine in the Age of Enlightenment. A Successful Approach Despite Early State Restrictions?

Abstract

Can Johannes Andreas Eisenbarth (1663-1727), Jean "le Grand" Thomas (c. 1680-1757), and Martin Van Butchell (1735-1814), famous protagonists of their profession in the 18th century, be described - in the context of their time - as dental respectively medical practitioners working for the well-being of their patients, or were they ingenious bubblers, who knew how to convince others of their prowess primarily through their masterful self-promotion, rather than their actual (dental) medical skills and expertise?