CAm and alternative therapies: why is there a resurgence in the UK?
Some reasons are given, and a rather convincing explanation is
presented. Quite useful, if you are interested in that.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Consumerism, modernity, pluralism and the resurgence of CAM
- Modernity and the Rise of Biomedical Medicine
- The Resurgence of CAM: A Second Modernity Perspective
- Consumerism and the Democratisation of the Medical System
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay aims to explore the reasons behind the resurgence of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in the UK. It delves into the interconnected concepts of modernity, pluralism, and consumerism, analyzing how these factors have influenced the rise and fall of CAM throughout history.
- The role of modernity in shaping the dominance and resurgence of CAM.
- The impact of pluralism and consumerism on the medical system.
- The interplay between scientific medicine and CAM.
- The implications of globalization on the spread and acceptance of CAM.
- The potential for a more inclusive and democratic medical system.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The essay begins by defining key terms, including modernity, pluralism, consumerism, and CAM. It then explores the historical relationship between modernity and the rise of biomedical medicine in the 19th century. The essay argues that the dominance of biomedical medicine was facilitated by a strong belief in scientific rationality and progress, a defining characteristic of early modernity.
The essay then shifts focus to the resurgence of CAM in the latter half of the 20th century, linking this phenomenon to what sociologists call "second modernity." This phase of modernity is characterized by a critical reflection on the limitations and unintended consequences of scientific progress, as well as a growing awareness of cultural diversity and globalization. The resurgence of CAM is seen as a response to these societal changes, reflecting a shift in public sentiment toward alternative approaches to health and well-being.
Finally, the essay examines the role of consumerism in the democratization of the medical system. The increasing availability of alternative therapy options empowers consumers to make informed choices, challenging the authority and monopoly of traditional medicine. The essay concludes that the resurgence of CAM is a positive development, fostering competition, encouraging greater transparency and evidence-based practices, and ultimately benefiting patients.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The essay focuses on key concepts such as modernity, pluralism, consumerism, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), biomedical medicine, globalization, and the democratization of the medical system. It examines the historical and sociological factors contributing to the rise and fall of CAM in the context of societal changes and evolving power dynamics within the medical field.
- Quote paper
- M.A. Christopher Knapp (Author), 2007, Alternative therapies in the UK , Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/215004
