Abstract
How should we define health and disease? This longstanding
philosophical question has significant real-world consequences,
shaping who receives treatment, who qualifies for social benefits, and
how healthcare policies are designed. Despite decades of debate, the
philosophy of medicine remains divided between naturalist and
normativist views, leaving important practical issues unresolved.
In this PhD thesis, Rik van der Linden advocates a pragmatist
approach to refuel the conceptual debate. Moving beyond monistic
definitions and conceptual analysis, the thesis incorporates empirical
and historical research, applying methods and frameworks such as comparative
epistemology and conceptual engineering.
Through case studies on chronic pain and Positive Health, it shows
how health and disease concepts are shaped by interrelated social,
epistemic, and historical factors. By bridging philosophical inquiry
with healthcare practice, this thesis offers fresh insights for
philosophers of medicine, healthcare professionals, and
policymakers alike — encouraging a more dynamic, context
sensitive approach to defining what it means to be healthy or
diseased.
philosophical question has significant real-world consequences,
shaping who receives treatment, who qualifies for social benefits, and
how healthcare policies are designed. Despite decades of debate, the
philosophy of medicine remains divided between naturalist and
normativist views, leaving important practical issues unresolved.
In this PhD thesis, Rik van der Linden advocates a pragmatist
approach to refuel the conceptual debate. Moving beyond monistic
definitions and conceptual analysis, the thesis incorporates empirical
and historical research, applying methods and frameworks such as comparative
epistemology and conceptual engineering.
Through case studies on chronic pain and Positive Health, it shows
how health and disease concepts are shaped by interrelated social,
epistemic, and historical factors. By bridging philosophical inquiry
with healthcare practice, this thesis offers fresh insights for
philosophers of medicine, healthcare professionals, and
policymakers alike — encouraging a more dynamic, context
sensitive approach to defining what it means to be healthy or
diseased.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisors/Advisors |
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| Award date | 28 Feb 2025 |
| Place of Publication | Rotterdam |
| Print ISBNs | 9789465068213 |
| Publication status | Published - 28 Feb 2025 |
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