Philosophy and Medicine seem incredibly different to the common eye. Many people regard them as contrasting fields: Philosophy rooted in the intangible and Medicine rooted in the tangible. However, this misconception couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, the two have a symbiotic relationship and build off one another.

It all started way back with Hippocrates, the “father of medicine.” He ditched magical explanations for illness, choosing instead to rely on observation, reason, and treating the whole person – mind, body, and environment. This early blend of philosophy and medicine laid the groundwork for the ethical and compassionate approach we see in doctors today.

One of the biggest ways philosophy helps doctors is with tricky ethical dilemmas. Imagine a patient refusing treatment, or a family struggling with end-of-life decisions. These situations test a doctor’s morals. Concepts like “doing the most good” (utilitarianism) and “following moral principles” (deontology) offer different ways to approach these challenges. By understanding these viewpoints, doctors can make informed decisions that prioritize patient well-being and respect their choices.

But philosophy doesn’t just help with tough calls; it also helps doctors navigate the world of “evidence-based medicine,” which relies on scientific studies. While these studies are crucial, they don’t always have all the answers. Individual patients are complex, and sometimes the best course of action isn’t clear-cut. Here’s where philosophy comes in again, reminding doctors to use their judgment, experience, and critical thinking alongside the evidence.

Philosophy even throws a wrench into the definition of “health” and “illness.” Doctors use science to diagnose these, but cultural and societal norms also play a role in what’s considered “normal.” Philosophy helps doctors question and challenge these norms, ensuring they treat everyone fairly and inclusively.

Beyond book smarts, philosophy equips doctors with practical skills: critical thinking, clear reasoning, and the ability to analyze arguments. These are essential for evaluating research, navigating ethical minefields, and communicating effectively with patients and colleagues. Making good medical decisions often involves balancing different values and interests; philosophical training helps doctors think clearly and make thoughtful decisions in even the most challenging situations.

Perhaps the most important thing philosophy teaches doctors is to put the patient first. By reflecting on concepts like “patient autonomy” (the right to make their own choices) and holistic well-being, doctors can better understand and respect what matters most to their patients. This allows them to build trust, collaborate with patients, and truly focus on healing, not just treating.

In a world of evolving technology, constant ethical challenges, and a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, philosophy isn’t just an extra class for doctors – it’s essential. By fostering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a deep understanding of the human experience, philosophy ensures that medicine remains not just a science, but also an art of caring.

SOURCES:

1. Beauchamp, Tom L., and James F. Childress. Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press, 2019. (Used for information on ethical theories)

2. Brody, Howard. Medicine & Philosophy. Springer, 2012. (Used for general information on the connection between philosophy and medicine)

3. National Center for Biotechnology Information. “https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470182/” Accessed 27 Feb. 2024. (Used for information on evidence-based medicine)