Philosophical Anthropology for Healthcare Professionals: Humanism in Medical Action cover art

Philosophical Anthropology for Healthcare Professionals: Humanism in Medical Action

Philosophical Anthropology for Healthcare Professionals: Humanism in Medical Action

By: Juan R Fabregat
Listen for free

About this listen

1. The Crisis of Dehumanization in Modern Medicine

  • Definition of Dehumanization: It is the process where patients are "treated as less than fully human—perceived not as persons but as diagnostic puzzles, biological systems, or administrative burdens." It involves the "denial of mental states, emotional depth, moral worth, or spiritual dignity," leading to reduced empathy and ethical sensitivity among caregivers.
  • Manifestations:Clinical Examples: A terminally ill patient discussed only by morphine dosage; a homeless man labeled a "frequent flyer"; a woman in labor treated as "a section at 6 a.m."
  • Implicit vs. Explicit: Can be explicit (e.g., verbal neglect) or implicit, "embedded in institutional routines and clinical language (e.g., ‘the gallbladder in room 3’)."
  • Systemic Roots: Often arises from "systemic pressures and anthropological deficits," not necessarily malice.
  • Consequences: "Erodes patient trust, increases clinician burnout, and correlates with diminished quality of care." It is a "philosophical and moral issue," not just a matter of bedside manner.
Episodes
  • Chapter 6: The Person in Society: Ethics Beyond the Individual
    Jul 4 2025

    This briefing document summarizes key themes from "Ethics Beyond the Individual: Personhood and Social Justice in Medicine," focusing on its critique of liberal individualism in bioethics and its proposal for a more relational, socially conscious approach rooted in Christian personalism and Catholic social teaching. The document argues that medicine is inherently social, demanding a shift from an overemphasis on individual autonomy to a balanced understanding of the human person as a "being-in-community," responsible for solidarity, justice, and the common good. Key areas of application include triage, vaccination, and health equity, all framed within the imperative to uphold intrinsic human dignity and promote the common good.

    Show More Show Less
    14 mins
  • Chapter 5: Body–Mind Unity in Clinical Contexts
    Jul 3 2025

    Dr. Juan Ramon Fabregat's "Body-Mind Unity in Clinical Contexts" critically examines the persistent dualistic approach in modern medicine, which often separates the physical body from the mind and spirit. The chapter advocates for a holistic anthropological model, particularly drawing on a Thomistic perspective, which views the human person as a substantial unity of body and soul. Fabregat's empirical research confirms a significant disconnect between healthcare professionals' stated commitment to holistic ideals and their actual clinical practices, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in medical education and institutional culture to foster a truly integrated, patient-centered, and ethically coherent approach to care. The core argument is that "anthropological vision is not an abstract philosophical issue—it is a clinical imperative," directly influencing the quality and humanity of care.

    Show More Show Less
    21 mins
  • Chapter 7: The Spiritual Dimension of the Patient
    Jul 4 2025

    This briefing document summarizes key themes and insights from "The Spiritual Dimension of Patient Care," particularly Chapter 7, "The Spiritual Dimension of the Patient," by Juan Ramón Fabregat. The text argues for the integral inclusion of spiritual care in clinical practice, moving beyond a purely biomedical model to embrace a holistic understanding of the human person. It draws on Catholic anthropology, personalist philosophy, and empirical data to present spiritual care as not merely an optional addition but a fundamental moral and professional responsibility.

    Show More Show Less
    17 mins

What listeners say about Philosophical Anthropology for Healthcare Professionals: Humanism in Medical Action

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.