This monograph is written to defend or establish the following theses from experimental and clinical data: (1) The normal and pathologic activities of the intestine are due to a polarized gradient in the intestinal musculature. There are no local reflex actions in the intestine itself. Auerbach's ganglionic plexus functions only in connection with the extrinsic nerves. All the local variations in action shown in different regions of the intestine are due to change in the rhythmicity of the muscular gradient. (2) That many, if not all, of the symptoms usually referred to a disordered intestine are caused by reversal of the gastro-intestinal peristalsis.
The first seven chapters deal with the facts and speculations on which the theory of muscular gradient of intestine action is based. Chapter IX deals with the practical application of this theory to conditions of gastro-intestinal disease in man. Chapter X deals with the supposed symptoms of