An upbeat and thought-provoking talk by the late author and researcher Norman Cousins (Anatomy of An Illness, The Healing Heart and other best-selling books) in which he tells a hospital audience, "We become ill because we are ready for the illness."

Cousins — noted for his own well-tested prescriptions for laughter in the combat of serious illness — presents numerous case studies in refreshing terms. He eloquently challenges many accepted practices of modern medicine and offers strategies for healing and life-long well-being.

This is the full transcript of the ground-breaking hour-long program, originally broadcast in Southern California in 1983 and over National Public Radio in 1984.

The Norman Cousins Talks on Positive Emotions and Health broadcast program and transcript are Copyright © Bob Rosenbaum 1983. All rights are reserved, including rights of reproduction. For more information, contact Bob Rosenbaum at 76530.1337@compuserve.com.

Updated: 21-Dec-2000