What can anarchism do for nursing?

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Philosophy
• Healthcare Systems

Background:

• Peter Kropotkin's concept of mutual aid challenges competition as the primary driver of survival.
• Cooperation is vital for adaptation, particularly evident during environmental changes like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Individualism in Western societies often overshadows the natural propensity for cooperation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore anarchist philosophical precepts, focusing on mutual aid.
• To examine the application of mutual aid in nursing and hospital settings.
• To propose mutual aid as a solution for improving healthcare system functioning.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of anarchist philosophy and mutual aid concepts.
• Analysis of cooperation strategies in biological and social contexts.
• Case study exploration of mutual aid in nursing practice and hospital systems.

Main Results:

• Mutual aid is a significant factor for group survival and adaptation.
• Anarchist principles, including mutual aid, offer a framework for more effective healthcare institutions.
• Moving away from competition and hierarchies towards mutual aid can enhance hospital operations.

Conclusions:

• Anarchist philosophy provides valuable insights for optimizing healthcare systems.
• Mutual aid can be practically applied in hospitals to foster better functioning and reduce negative hierarchies.
• Implementing mutual aid principles is key to addressing challenges in modern healthcare and social organizations.