The Enigma of Health : The Art of Healing in a Scientific Age

In this book Gadamer discusses the transformations in human self-understanding, focusing on the achievements of modern medicine. In this important new book, Hans-Georg Gadamer discusses the transformation in human self-understanding wrought by the scientific worldview, focusing in particular on the unparalleled achievements of modern medicine. He explores the ethical and humanist issues raised by the technological successes of modern clinical practice, and relates them to the classical conception of "praxis" in the philosophical tradition. In a series of lucid and engaging analyses, Gadamer eloquently defends the idea of medicine, not only as a "science of health, but as an "art" of hermeneutic relevance, requiring the exercise of practical judgment and personal interpretation. We should, he argues, recognize the limits of purely technical approach to healing, as well as the importance of a qualitative approach to medical treatment. Written by one of the leading philosophers of the twentieth century, this brilliant meditation on health, illness, and the art of healing will be of interest to general readers as well as students of philosophy and social thought.

The book brings together thirteen essays presented to medical and psychiatric societies, mainly during the 1970’s and 1980’s. In these essays, Gadamer justifies the reasons for a philosophical interest in health and medicine, and a corresponding need for health practitioners to enter into a dialogue with philosophy.

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German philosopher Gadamer explores the ethical and humanist issues raised by the technological successes of modern medicine. He argues that medicine is not only a science but an art of hermeneutic relevance requiring practical judgment and personal interpretation. First published as Uber die Verborgenheit der Gesundheit in 1993. Paper edition (unseen), $14.95. No bibliography. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Discusses the transofrmations in human self-understanding wrought by the scientific world-view, focusing in particular on the unparalleled achievements of modern medicine. The author explores the ethical and humanist issues raised by the technological successes of modern clinical practice, and relates them to the classical conception of "praxis" in the philosophical tradition. [Back cover]. This work discusses the transformations in human self-understanding wrought by the scientific world-view, focusing in particular on modern medicine. It explores the ethical and humanist issues raised by the technological successes of modern clinical practice, and relates them to "praxis". aeo Gadamer is one of the leading philosophers of the 20th Century. aeo This book brings together his reflections on health, illness and the art of healing.