The Mystery of Life's Origin: Reassessing Current Theories

needs of the dying patient (or colleague) and their families. Beyond "greater awareness," however, the solution to this problem is not found in this book. It simply reminds us to consult with social work or psychiatry in order to mask our own deficiencies. Such consultation will not substantially improve the effectiveness of the physician in handling these issues. For readers who are already interested in these topics, Safe Passage will be disappointing. It does not offer any sense that things can be better; it only reminds us that things are bad. This book will be most useful as a focus for discussion. Judicious selection of articles (e.g., "Compounding the Ordeal of ALS," "Doctors and Cancer Patients," and specific-issue essays) could provide physicians with a first step in the struggle toward meaningful change.