DOCTOR

(Lat. for a teacher), one | who is skilled or learned in any branch |of knowledge, or whose attainments entitle him to expre an authoritative opinion. Asa title or degree it is granted by universities to those who have attain- | ed the highest qualification, and ranks above master; but the ranks vary, thus in divinity, law, music etc., there are no masters, and the lower degree is | bachelor; in other faculties such as arts, there are no D’s. In the 14th century | the degree of D. was conferred in medicine, and in common parlance a ‘D.’ means a physician, or, quite generally, qualified medical practitioner, whether | he has taken the degree of D. in Medicine, M.D., or not. The first university degree of D. was granted at Bologna in the faculty of law, in the 12th century. The faculties in which the degree is granted are too numerous to specify, ee new faculties with the Ste rae specialization tend to spring up. The universities are accustomed to great honorary doctorates to members of other universities, or of none, who have distinguished themselves in a particular branch of knowledge, or who are prom- | inent generally, such as distinguished statesmen, military and naval officers, | scientists, artists, writers, etc. Of these honorary degrees those of D.C.L., Doctor of Civil Law, and LL.D., Doctor of Laws, are perhaps of the highest distinction. who supported restored monarchy in France, 1815-30; generally, theorists maintaining abstract doctrines, regardle of practical considerations.