Philosophical principles of ancient medicine

Abstract

Summary. The article describes the philosophical principles of ancient medicine from the end of VII century B.C. to the beginning of VI century A.D. At the beginning the ancient medicine was closely linked to philosophical knowledge. Many personalities not only solved philosophical problems, but also were engaged in medical practice. Doctors and philosophers were: Galen, Heraphilus, Heraclitus, Erasistratus, Pythagoras, Philolaus, Empedocles, Alcmaeon, Diogenes. Aristotle also had a medical education.

The aim of the study – to expand and deepen the knowledge of the basics of ancient medicine, as well as to inspire and motivate modern physicians to an individual-oriented approach to every patient.

Materials and Methods. Based on the Internet searching data bases, a review and analysis of materials about ancient medicine and the role of philosophy in its development has been made.

Results. The contribution of ancient philosophers and physicians – Greeks and Romans – in the spiritual treasury of humankind cannot be overestimated. Hippocrates believed that "observation at the patient's bedside" was extremely necessary, because experience alone was "deceptive." He emphasized the need, although, complexity, at the same time of reasoning, the participation of the mind, thinking in the process of putting diagnosis of the disease. Hippocrates wrote: "Life is short, the path of art is long, a convenient case is fleeting, the experience is deceptive, and reasoning is difficult." Only by studying the interpenetration of soul and body, you can count on the effectiveness of treatment. Horace suggested defining mental health as a state in which a person is satisfied with himself, treats others correctly and is able to withstand life's troubles. Aristotle followed the principle that the soul cannot be separated from the body, so if a person has a healthy body, he has a healthy soul. The philosopher combined the concepts of physical and mental health. To paraphrase Newton, if we see further than they do, it is because we are standing on their shoulders.

Conclusions. The process of history formation and development of philosophy and medicine is inextricably linked with the general history of humankind and science. The progress of medicine certainly directly affects the life of each of us in particular and society in general, and has such a social significance that it is simply impossible not to consider it when analyzing the development of society and its prospects.