Document Detail


Constructive realism and medicine: an approach to medical ontology.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  18723940     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Metaphysics is an essential part of philosophy of medicine, providing the background for further methodological work. Current accounts of the ontology of particular diseases may be classified as realist or anti-realist. Because strong arguments can be marshaled by both of these positions, an approach to medical ontology that draws support from both sides of this divide would be desirable. Abstract models, as described by Ronald Giere, provide such an approach. After a review of Giere's account of mechanics, I show how abstract models can provide an account of the ontology of diseases.
Authors:
Jeremy R Simon
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Perspectives in biology and medicine     Volume:  51     ISSN:  0031-5982     ISO Abbreviation:  Perspect. Biol. Med.     Publication Date:  2008  
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2008-08-25     Completed Date:  2009-01-14     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  0401132     Medline TA:  Perspect Biol Med     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  353-66     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Center for Bioethics and Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA. js1115@columbia.edu
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Cystic Fibrosis
Disease*
Humans
Knowledge
Metaphysics*
Models, Theoretical*
Philosophy, Medical*
Reality Testing

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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