[Knowledge of human nature as clinical competence]

Western medical education has little tradition for critical reflection and discussion. There is a professional overemphasis on the biological and technical aspects of illness and health, with little attention being paid to the phenomenological aspects. The article argues that health depends on two dimensions denoted by the terms meaning and belonging, central in postmodern philosophy in the tradition of Heidegger and Gadamer. Meaning and belonging emerge through dialogue and interpretation. Good clinical communication secures correct medical information and understanding, both of them worthy goals. The most important function of medical dialogue is, however, its ability to strengthen the self-healing interpretational processes of the patient.