| On the Nature of Health: An Action-Theoretic Approach Rev and Enl Edition Contributor(s): Nordenfelt, L. y. (Author) |
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ISBN: 0792333691 ISBN-13: 9780792333692 Publisher: Springer OUR PRICE: $161.49 Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats Published: July 1995 Annotation: This study of the concept of health combines central ideas in modern philosophy of medicine with some results from analytical action theory. The concept which emerges is one of health founded on an action-theoretic platform: a person's health is characterized by his/her ability to achieve his/her vital goals. The book draws on insights from a number of modern philosophers of medicine, in particular C. Boorse, C. Whitbeck and I. PC6rn. Some conclusions, however, are quite different from all the modern theories discussed. This mainly concerns the analysis of the concept of a vital goal which is, in the present study, connected with human happiness. The book will be of particular interest to philosophers of medicine and philosophers in general. Also of value to medical personnel and health policy makers who take an interest in the conceptual foundations of health care. |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - Health & Fitness - Philosophy | Ethics & Moral Philosophy - Medical | Administration |
| Dewey: 613 |
| LCCN: 95001945 |
| Series: Philosophy and Medicine |
| Physical Information: 0.63" H x 6.14" W x 9.21" (1.14 lbs) 217 pages |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: GENERAL INTRODUCTION This study of the concept of health is an attempt to combine central ideas in modern philosophy of medicine with certain results from analytical action theory. What emerges from the study is a concept 'of health based on an action-theoretic foundation. A person's health is characterized as his ability to achieve his vital goals. The general conception is not new. This study has been inspired by a number of scholars, both ancient and modern. The most important influences from the latter have been those of Georges Canguilhem, H. Tristram Engelhardt Jr., Caroline Whitbeck and Ingmar Porn. The novel aspect of this book consists of elaborations made to the general conception. First, the action-theoretic platform is analysed in some detail. The nature of the ability involved, as well as the conditions for having that ability, are specified. Second, the vital goals of man are given considerable attention. Some previous attempts to define such vital goals are analysed and criticized. A new characterization is proposed, in which the vital goals are conceptually linked to the notion of happiness. A person's vital goals are such states of affairs as are necessary and together sufficient for his minimal happiness. Third, a number of consequences of this con- ception are observed and analysed. One issue which is particularly empha- sized is that of whether the concept of health is a theoretical or a normative concept. |