Albert Schweitzer and international health

Albert Schweitzer (1875–1965) was a medical missionary, theologian, philosopher, and musician and the only individual physician to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. His humanitar-ianism had a profound philosophical-religious basis, embodied in the concepts of ethical mysticism and reverence for life. This paper outlines the relevance of Schweitzer's career to medical education and international health. The growing role of Western physicians in international health and in the prevention of nuclear war (and its medical consequences) is consistent with Schweitzer's active and universalist ethical principles aimed at the alleviation of the suffering shared by mankind. The example of Schweitzer and other individual physicians could be used to enhance participation of individual medical students and physicians in international health programs.The author gratefully acknowledges the helpful comments and suggestions of Dr. James Terry.