Homeopathy Reconsidered

Homeopathy is over 200 years old and is still experiencing an uninterrupted influx of new practitioners and patients. Many patients and therapists swear by this "alternative healing method", which in some countries is even financed by health insurances. This seems completely incomprehensible to critics: For them it is clearly evident that homeopathy is hopelessly unscientific and has at best a placebo effect. The positions of supporters and opponents seem to be just as immutable as they are incompatible. This book answers some essential and fascinating questions: What remains of the founding ideas of homeopathy in 21st century medicine? Does it really work and, if so, how? Which of the original theories can we still apply today with a clear conscience and use for the benefit of patients and the healthcare system? Where does homeopathy have its limits and does it indeed need to be critically reconsidered and evaluated? The author has dealt with the points of criticism for years, but at the same time also takes seriously the wishes and concerns of patients who often feel insufficiently cared for by conventional medical practice. Against the background of her own personal history, her book attempts to bridge the gap between these two traditionally opposing camps.

This comprehensive textbook provides a detailed, practical and thorough basis for the understanding and application of the homeopathic process. Drawing on the experience and knowledge of a wealth of contributors, the book offers the foundations for the safe and broadest practice of modern homeopathy. Divided into 6 sections, this book takes the understanding of homeopathy from basic principles to the treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, the first prescription, and difficult, confused and hidden cases. Each section progresses through five themes broadly divided into philosophy, material medica, case taking, case analyses and case management. Each theme is woven together through the text and, section by section, builds into an essential study guide for the homeopathic student. It provides opportunities for reflection, and invites all practitioners to engage in their own personal and professional development.

The Routledge Companion to Philosophy of Medicine is a comprehensive guide to topics in the fields of epistemology and metaphysics of medicine. It examines traditional topics such as the concept of disease, causality in medicine, the epistemology of the randomized controlled trial, the biopsychosocial model, explanation, clinical judgment and phenomenology of medicine and emerging topics, such as philosophy of epidemiology, measuring harms, the concept of disability, nursing perspectives, race and gender, the metaphysics of Chinese medicine, and narrative medicine. Each of the 48 chapters is written especially for this volume and with a student audience in mind. For pedagogy and clarity, each chapter contains an extended example illustrating the ideas discussed. This text is intended for use as a reference for students in courses in philosophy of medicine and philosophy of science, and pairs well with The Routledge Companion to Bioethics for use in medical humanities and social science courses.

Vols. for 1963- include as pt. 2 of the Jan. issue: Medical subject headings.