“Medicines are only fit for old people.”
- August 15, 1769 – May 5, 1821
- French of Italian descent
- French military officer and emperor
- Reorganized Europe after the French Revolution and built the foundations of the legal system in modern Europe
Quote
“Medicines are only fit for old people.”
Explanation
Napoleon Bonaparte’s remark here reveals a somewhat dismissive view of medicine and possibly a belief in the strength and resilience of youth. By suggesting that medicine is only appropriate for older individuals, he may have implied that the young should rely on their natural vitality and self-reliance, rather than depending on external aids for health. In Napoleon’s time, medicine was not as advanced as it is today, and many treatments were rudimentary or even harmful. As a result, people may have seen medicine as a last resort, something for those with diminished strength or unavoidable ailments.
In a contemporary context, this statement might sound outdated, as we now understand the benefits of preventive medicine and the role of treatment for people of all ages. Today’s approach emphasizes health maintenance, with medications available to manage conditions across a lifetime and to improve quality of life regardless of age. Modern medicine aims not only to treat illness but also to promote well-being and longevity for all.
Napoleon’s comment, however, still brings an interesting perspective on self-sufficiency and the idea that younger people might benefit from cultivating resilience and healthy habits to reduce dependency on medicine. Balancing self-care with medical intervention, focusing on prevention, and using medicine wisely remain valuable aspects of health management for people of all ages.
