Overview

In this book the author explores the shifting philosophical boundaries of modern medical knowledge and practice occasioned by the crisis of quality-of-care, especially in terms of the various humanistic adjustments to the biomedical model. To that end he examines the metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical boundaries of these medical models. He begins with their metaphysics, analyzing the metaphysical positions and presuppositions and ontological commitments upon which medical knowledge and practice is founded. Next, he considers the epistemological issues that face these medical models, particularly those driven by methodological procedures undertaken by epistemic agents to constitute medical knowledge and practice. Finally, he examines the axiological boundaries and the ethical implications of each model, especially in terms of the physician-patient relationship. In a concluding Epilogue, he discusses how the philosophical analysis of the humanization of modern medicine helps to address the crisis-of-care, as well as the question of What is medicine?

The book's unique features include a comprehensive coverage of the various topics in the philosophy of medicine that have emerged over the past several decades and a philosophical context for embedding bioethical discussions. The book's target audiences include both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as healthcare professionals and professional philosophers.

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9789048116966

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Reviews

From the reviews: James Marcum s An Introductory Philosophy of Medicine provides a comprehensive overview of philosophical issues in medicine. The book provides clear explanations of a number of philosophical issues relevant to medical research and practice as well as covering a number of more general philosophical issues relevant to philosophy of medicine. Overall, this book is an important contribution. for academics or health professionals, interested in philosophy of medicine and Marcum has done a great service by providing an excellent introduction to the field. (Robyn Bluhm, Theoretical Medicine and Bioethics, August, 2009)

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