Abstract
This article adopts Husserl’s transcendental phenomenology to explore the complex relationship between patients and physicians. It delves into the coexistence of two distinct voices in the realm of medicine and health: the “voice of medicine” and the “voice of life-world.” Divided into three sections, the article emphasizes the importance of shifting from a scientific-medical attitude to a more personalistic approach in physician–patient interactions. This shift aims to prevent depersonalization and desubjectification. Additionally, it highlights the equal and irreducible nature of patients while acknowledging the vital role physicians hold in the realm of illness. The article stresses the need for a balanced and equitable relationship between both parties, rooted in the shared life-world. Moreover, empathy is underscored as a crucial element in fostering meaningful dialogue, wherein understanding diverse perspectives and attitudes towards illness is paramount. The article argues that differences between patients and physicians are necessary for empathy, while shared similarities form its foundation. Ultimately, a harmonious relationship facilitates empathy and enables the constitution of a new sense of life for both patients and physicians.
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The author was supported by a Grant from The National Social Science Fund of China in The Compilation and Research of Jan Patočka’s Works (reference id 21CZX045). The sponsor has no role in the preparation of the manuscript.
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Zhang, J. Fostering dialogue: a phenomenological approach to bridging the gap between the “voice of medicine” and the “voice of the lifeworld”. Med Health Care and Philos 27, 155–164 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11019-024-10195-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11019-024-10195-x