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Addiction and its sciences-philosophy
1James Martin 21st Century School, Oxford University, Oxford, UK. bennett.foddy@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
Addiction (Abingdon, England)
|October 20, 2010
Summary
Philosophical theories offer valuable insights into addiction, particularly regarding its disease classification and compulsive nature. Integrating this philosophical work is crucial for advancing addiction science and understanding complex concepts like freedom and willpower.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Mind
- Addiction Science
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Philosophical inquiry into addiction has a long history, with relevant theories predating contemporary scientific study.
- Developments in addiction science, such as disease classification and the concept of compulsive behavior, have roots in philosophical discourse.
- However, scientific engagement with relevant philosophical work remains limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the philosophical underpinnings of two key issues in addiction science: disease classification and the compulsive nature of addictive behavior.
- To demonstrate how philosophical concepts can be used to critique and refine scientific claims about addiction.
- To highlight the necessity of engaging with philosophical scholarship for robust justification of scientific assertions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of philosophical literature on disease concepts (e.g., Boorse, Nordenfelt) to critique addiction's disease classification.
- Examination of philosophical theories of free will and volition (e.g., Audi, Frankfurt, Mele) to analyze claims of compulsive addictive behavior.
- Identification of potential issues arising from the neglect of philosophical concepts in addiction science.
Main Results:
- Philosophical concepts can challenge the disease model of addiction.
- Scientific claims about addiction's compulsive nature rely on complex and debated philosophical ideas about freedom and willpower.
- Ignoring philosophical scholarship can lead to conceptual difficulties and flawed scientific conclusions.
Conclusions:
- Philosophical concepts and theories offer significant potential benefits for addiction science.
- Acknowledging and integrating philosophical work is essential for the scientific progression and accurate understanding of addiction.
- Scientists should actively incorporate relevant philosophical scholarship to strengthen their research and claims.
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