IX.

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THE CONTRIBUTORY CAUSES OF HEALTH

As

INTRODUCTORY

This far discussion has been focussed on the biological and physiological
factors concerned with the production of health. There are, however, im-
portant indirect or contributing factors which require consideration and
understanding in order to have a reasonably complete picture of the
problems of constructive hygiene.

While the six "determining factors," heredity, nutrition, excretion,
exercise, play rest are of primary importance, the successful production
of health by these is dependent upon other indirect, but essential,
influences. These indirect influences or factors may be set dow under
the following general headings for consideration: (1) Responsibility for
human welfare; (2) Favorable environment; (3) The prevention and care of
health injury. These will be discussed in this order.

1. Responsibility for Human Welfare

ae Relation of instinct of self-preservation and of minor defense
instincts in their connection with certain emotions to this
probleme

be. The instincts, or nerve patterns, which influence man to care for,
and protect, and seek the welfare of members of his family and
community. Compare man with other animals in their responses in
such matters.

ce. The "mothering," the gregarious (or "herd") instincts in relation
to group and inter-group responsibility for health. Point out
some of the applications of constructive hygiene based on them.
(See Storey, Chapter XI on applications.) These contribute power-
ful influences connected with the applications of the determining
causes of health.

2e Favorable Environment

ae Compare primitive or savage peoples with those more enlightened in
regard to their efforts and successes in control of environment.

b. The control of environment and ability to make it favorable is
dependent on:

(1) The power of scientific information, Show how information
acquired through experience and research have been contribu-
ting factors in securing favorable environment; in securing
food; in adjusting to climate and weather; in finding out
facts about the nature of man's environment, and in the
application of these facts.

ce The Power of Balanced Education.
(1) In destroying superstitions
(2) In securing social action in applications of scientific
information to various health problems; the reduction of

famine and pestilences; in the econtrel of communicable
diseases; in raising standards of living, etc.