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Hermeneutics in science and medicine: a thesis understated
1Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599.
Theoretical Medicine
|June 1, 1990
Summary
This response argues for a radical hermeneutic approach in medicine and science. Embracing this deeper interpretation can reduce physician alienation from patients and medical practice.
Area of Science:
- Medical Philosophy
- Philosophy of Science
- Hermeneutics in Medicine
Background:
- Drew Leder's essay "Clinical Interpretation: The Hermeneutics of Medicine" understates the hermeneutic nature of medicine.
- This perspective risks misinterpretation of medicine's interpretive and foundational aspects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for a more comprehensive hermeneutic approach in both medicine and science.
- To argue that modern medicine and its scientific underpinnings are inherently hermeneutic enterprises.
- To propose that embracing this radical thesis can mitigate physician alienation.
Main Methods:
- Critical analysis of Leder's essay.
- Philosophical argumentation for a thorough-going hermeneutic in medicine and science.
- Conceptual exploration of the hermeneutic nature of medical practice and scientific foundations.
Main Results:
- Modern medicine and its scientific foundations are fundamentally hermeneutic.
- A radical hermeneutic approach is conceptually and practically viable.
- Understating the hermeneutic case leads to misinterpretation and potential alienation.
Conclusions:
- Medicine and science should fully embrace their hermeneutic character.
- A comprehensive hermeneutic framework can enhance the physician-patient relationship.
- Adopting a radical hermeneutic perspective can reduce physician alienation from their practice.