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[Heat and Fever in ancient Greek physiology]
1Department of the History of Medicine and Medical Ethics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Korea.
Ui Sahak
|January 26, 2010
Summary
This study clarifies the distinction between physiological heat and pathological heat (fever) in ancient Greek medicine. It uses Georges Canguilhem
Area of Science:
- History of Medicine
- Philosophy of Science
Context:
- Ancient Greek medical theories on innate and pathological heat.
- The philosophical framework of Georges Canguilhem's 'The Normal and the Pathologic'.
- Historical perspectives from Galen and Peripatetic authors on heat in physiology and pathology.
Purpose:
- To analyze the relationship between physiological heat and pathological heat (fever).
- To apply Canguilhem's theoretical scheme to ancient Greek medical concepts.
- To differentiate between heat 'kata phusin' (according to nature) and 'para phusin' (against nature).
Summary:
- Explores ancient Greek views on physiological and pathological heat, including Galen's distinction.
- Applies Canguilhem's philosophy to understand the continuity or discontinuity between normal and abnormal heat.
- Highlights how Peripatetic authors and Claude Bernard viewed pathology in relation to physiology.
Impact:
- Provides a novel interpretation of ancient medical concepts through a modern philosophical lens.
- Enhances understanding of the historical development of concepts related to fever and homeostasis.
- Demonstrates the utility of Canguilhem's framework for analyzing historical scientific ideas.
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