Philosophy of Medicine - Islamic vs. Western

Philosophy of Medicine - Islamic vs. Western

-Dr. Md. Habeeb Haris

Islamic and Western philosophies approach medical practice with distinct perspectives shaped by their broader worldviews, though there are some overlaps.

 1. Theological Foundation vs. Secular Foundation:

   - Islamic Philosophy: Islamic philosophy of Medicine is deeply rooted in the Islamic Epistemology. It's values are based on the Qur'an and Sunnah. The approach is theocentric, meaning it places God at the center of all considerations. Medical practice is seen as a form of worship, a part of fulfilling God's will, and serving humanity, with a strong emphasis on the sanctity of life, the spiritual role and moral responsibility of the physician, and the importance of intentions (niyyah).

   - Western Philosophy: Western medical practice often stems from a secular, humanistic foundation and is influenced by ancient Greek, Roman, and Enlightenment philosophies. Philosophical approaches in the West may vary widely, from utilitarianism to deontological ethics, often focusing more on individual rights and social contracts. 

 2. Holistic vs. Analytical Approach:

   - Islamic Philosophy: Islamic medicine tends to take a holistic approach, considering not only the physical aspects of a person but also the spiritual, psychological, and social dimensions. The mind, soul (ruh) and body are interconnected, and medical treatment often involves addressing all these aspects. Prayers, supplications, family and community support, and trust in God play a role.

   - Western Philosophy: Western medical practice is typically more analytical and reductionist, often focusing on the physical body and biological mechanisms. Cartesian duality which has significantly influenced the Western medicine envisions the mind and body separately. (Rene Descartes, a prominent philosopher, proposed the concept of mind-body dualism.) However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in holistic approaches, but these are often seen as complementary or alternative to mainstream medicine.

 3. Ethical Decision-Making:

   - Islamic Philosophy: Ethical decisions in Islamic medical practice are guided by the objective morality of the Sharia (Islamic law), which derives from religious texts. Scholars may issue fatawa (legal opinions) to address new medical issues, ensuring that practices align with Islamic values.

   - Western Philosophy: In Western medical ethics, decision-making is based on a subjective morality primarily guided by secular ethics. Less influenced by religious or cultural norms. It often involves balancing the four main ethical principles—autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Patient autonomy is particularly emphasized, with individuals having the right to make informed decisions about their own care, even if these decisions conflict with medical advice.

 4. Preventive vs. Curative approach:

   - Islamic Philosophy: There is a strong emphasis on disease prevention. Many Islamic teachings inherently have a benefit of disease prevention. Encourages the use of natural treatments alongside conventional medicine.

   - Western Philosophy: Often prioritizes treatment and intervention over prevention.

 5. Community vs. Individual Focus:

   - Islamic Philosophy: Learning and practicing medical science is a collective obligation (Fardh e Kifayah) on the community as a whole and the physicians are honoured for discharging this religious obligation on behalf of the entire community. There is a strong emphasis on community welfare in Islamic medical practice. The health of the community is often considered alongside individual needs, and public health measures are encouraged as a collective responsibility. Islamic teachings promote the idea of mutual care and responsibility among believers. 

   - Western Philosophy: While public health is an important aspect of Western medical practice, the emphasis is often on individual rights and choices. Medical decisions are typically seen as the domain of the individual, with less emphasis on the community’s role in personal health decisions.

 6. Understanding of Health and Disease, Life and Death:

 - Islamic Philosophy: Health and life are considered as a trust and gift of God to be preserved and protected as well as a means of test, to be utilised properly for achieving eternal success in the Hereafter. Disease, pain and suffering are considered as a part of Destiny and a test from God to be shown patience for, even as prevention and treatment are sought. Sickness is also considered as a means of spiritual growth, forgiveness of sins and increasing one’s rewards and ranks with God.

Seeking treatment is considered as  religiously encouraged (Sunnah) and, some times, even obligatory. Death is not considered as an end. Rather it is seen as a gateway to an eternal life and a means of meeting with God Almighty. However it is not to be sought or desired and generally all possible effort is to be made to preserve life.

   - Western Philosophy: Sees them only through a biological lens and disease is seen mostly in a negative light.

 7. Role of the Physician:

   - Islamic Philosophy: The physician in Islamic thought is seen as a Khalifa (Agent) of God in healing the sick on His behalf and as a steward of God's creation. They are not only responsible for the physical health of their patients but also their mental and spiritual well-being. The physician is expected to act with Ihsan (excellence) and Taqwa (God-consciousness), viewing their work as a form of worship.

   - Western Philosophy: In Western practice, the physician's role is primarily of a professional providing medical care based on scientific knowledge. The spiritual dimension is ignored.

In summary, the Islamic and Western philosophies differ significantly in their foundational principles, approach to ethics, and the role of spirituality in medical practice.