Reclaiming the Sacred in Medicine: Toward an Integration of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science in Healthcare
Journal of Religion and Theology July 21, 2025 DOI: 10.22259/2637-5907.0704001 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 2 |
| Key points | Argues that Cartesian dualism has sacred theological origins in Neoplatonic, Augustinian, and mystical Christian thought, and proposes that recognizing this genealogy enables a post-Cartesian healthcare synthesis that unites body, mind, and spirit while retaining evidence-based practice. |
Abstract
This essay explores the profound implications of recognizing the sacred theological origins of Cartesian mind-body dualism for contemporary healthcare transformation.Drawing from the thesis that Descartes' supposedly secular philosophy emerged from Neoplatonic, Augustinian, and mystical Christian traditions, this work proposes a revolutionary healthcare model that reclaims medicine's sacred roots while preserving the advances of the scientific revolution.Rather than abandoning technological progress, this vision suggests that understanding the spiritual genealogy of our current medical paradigm opens pathways to a post-Cartesian synthesis-one that honors the unity of body, mind, and spirit while embracing evidence-based practice.The essay outlines practical frameworks for integrating contemplative practices, sacred architecture, holistic patient care, and spiritually-informed clinical protocols within technologically advanced medical settings.