Philosophy for Medical Students and Practitioners

Merited attention to the scientific basis of Medicine should not eclipse the philosophical associations that run through its theory and practice as discussed in this book, especially its phenomenology. The role of precision in defining medical concepts like normality, knowledge, existence, signs and symptoms of disease, illness, and disability are discussed in the book; so are the controversial and divisive topics of abortion and euthanasia. Finally a plea is made for the inclusion of Darwinian Medicine in the study and understanding of many disease processes. Above all, the importance of understanding, communication, and empathy with patients in their diverse types of existential predicaments as well as their less serious medical afflictions is emphasized throughout the book.