Philosophy matters in brain matters.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Philosophy of Mind
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• The Cartesian dualism of psyche and soma, despite being controversial since the 17th century, continues to influence neurological diagnoses.
• Terms like 'functional,' 'organic,' and 'psychogenic' reflect this persistent mind-body divide.
• Medically unexplained seizures highlight the complexities and potential biases in current diagnostic language.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine the language used in diagnosing psychogenic seizures and its roots in Cartesian dualism.
• To explore the implications of the psyche/soma divide in contemporary neurological practice.
• To investigate the therapeutic potential of narrative framing and self-consciousness in patients with medically unexplained symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A close reading and critical analysis of a textbook chapter focusing on psychogenic seizures.
• Drawing upon personal experiences with medically unexplained seizures to inform the critique.
• Philosophical inquiry into the nature of human experience and its organic basis.

Main Results:

• The analysis reveals an uncritical acceptance of the psyche/soma distinction and an inherent bias against psychogenic diagnoses.
• Implicit sexism within the discussed diagnostic framework is identified.
• Heightened self-consciousness and narrative framing can enhance patient agency and offer therapeutic benefits, irrespective of symptom alleviation.

Conclusions:

• Ethical patient care necessitates a fundamental respect for individual patient stories and experiences.
• Challenging the dualistic language in neurology can lead to more patient-centered and effective treatment approaches.
• Recognizing the organic basis of all human experience is crucial for dismantling diagnostic biases.