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Between health and illness
1Keighley Road Surgery, Illingworth, Halifax, West Yorkshire, UK. npgdavies@blueyonder.co.uk
Perspectives in Biology and Medicine
|July 31, 2007
Summary
This essay defines health as a positive, ongoing outcome of living well, encompassing wealth, relationships, and adaptability. It argues that pursuing health is a moral and biological endeavor, integrating generative and remedial approaches for holistic well-being.
Area of Science:
- Medical Humanities
- Health Sciences
- Philosophy of Medicine
Background:
- Explores the complex interplay between health and illness.
- Examines the concepts of salutogenesis, pathogenesis, and homeostasis.
- Considers human embodiment's impact on health and disease experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a positive, outcome-based definition of health.
- To integrate biological and moral dimensions in the pursuit of health.
- To advocate for a balanced approach to patient care, fostering flourishing.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of health and illness processes.
- Philosophical examination of embodiment and well-being.
- Integration of clinical experience with theoretical frameworks.
Main Results:
- Health is defined as an ongoing outcome of a 'life lived well'.
- 'Well-being' is multifactorial, including wealth, relationships, coherence, fitness, and adaptability.
- The pursuit of health is presented as both a biological and moral enterprise.
Conclusions:
- A positive definition of health integrates salutogenesis and pathogenesis.
- Doctors should balance remedial medicine with measures promoting human flourishing.
- Holistic health requires addressing biological, social, and moral aspects of life.
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