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Epistemologies in religious healing

D J Hufford1

  • 1Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey 17033.

The Journal of Medicine and Philosophy
|April 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary

Many people believe in miraculous healing through prayer, even in modern society. These beliefs are often rationally based on personal experiences and differing assumptions, not necessarily conflicting with medical knowledge.

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Area of Science:

  • Sociology of religion
  • Medical sociology
  • Psychology of belief

Background:

  • Religious beliefs in miraculous healing persist despite modern society.
  • Conventional perspectives view these beliefs as irrational.
  • Previous theories suggested psychological mechanisms for their persistence.

Observation:

  • Individuals' beliefs in prayer for healing are often rationally ordered.
  • These beliefs are frequently empirically founded on personal experience.
  • Beliefs do not typically involve outright rejection of medical knowledge.

Findings:

  • Differences in beliefs stem from distinct underlying assumptions.
  • Subjective experiences are heavily credited within these belief systems.
  • Personal experiences of believers shape their unique perspectives.

Implications:

  • Re-evaluating the rationality of faith-based healing beliefs is necessary.
  • Understanding these beliefs requires considering individual assumptions and experiences.
  • This research offers insights into the intersection of faith, medicine, and personal conviction.

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