Observations on a New Theory
Sir Macfarlane Burnet , O.M., F.R.S.
Jn conversation with an English physician
The Australian biologist's talk, recorded during a recent visit to this country, considers the system of immunity we aU possess, ils breakdown as in auto-immune disease, and the evolutionary, novel, and perhaps productive way-the clonal selection theory-of approaching the medical problems that arise when immunological responses are distorted. He looks at ageing and at cancer in the light of this theory, and speculates about its hopeful application 10 rheumatic fever and rheumatoid arthritis.
(The recorded broadcast of July 29)