THE VISCERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM AND ITS RELATION TO THE ENDOCRINES

Many vegetative functions of the human organism have been shown to be under the influence of the visceral nervous system.¹ It has also been shown that many vegetative functions are under the influence of the endocrine system. At least some of these vegetative functions have been observed to be affected by both systems. These facts have led to various conclusions. By some investigators the visceral nervous system has been given the dominant rôle, while other investigators have relegated the visceral nervous system to a minor rôle, placing the primary importance on the endocrines. On the other hand, statements are not uncommonly found in the literature that suggest a duality of control between these two systems. Zondek² says "It should be emphasized that the hormonal system does not, as was supposed by many writers, fulfil the rôle of sole governor of vital functions but that in this respect it