A literature review of historical medical and political texts was conducted via PubMed, JSTOR, and Internet Archive to trace terminology trends related to the Monro-Kellie concept and comparable doctrines in neuroscience and politics.

Monro introduced the concept in 1783, which was later expanded in 1821 by Kellie’s dissections and further developed by Abercrombie in 1828. Abercrombie's work integrated cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, thereby strengthening the original Monro-Kellie hypothesis as a “doctrine”. In America, Harvey Cushing’s 1926 writings popularized the term “doctrine,” solidifying the MKD as a foundational element in neural science education. Even though subsequent revisions (MKD 2.0–4.0) have expanded the model. Yet, the title ‘doctrine” persists. The contemporaneous, and homophonic, Monroe Doctrine (1823) likely reinforced the word’s prestige and durability. In contrast to other physiological “doctrines,” such as Ramon y Cajal’s Neuron Doctrine, which have shifted mainly to historical context.

The persistence of the term “doctrine” for the MKD illustrates how language, culture, and history shape scientific identity. Despite evolving understanding, the authoritative tone and historical resonance of “doctrine” continue to influence terminology in neurophysiology, education, and medical discourse.