Constructive realism and medicine: an approach to medical ontology.
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.
Simon
Jeremy R
JR
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
D003550:Cystic Fibrosis; D004194:Disease; D006801:Humans; D019359:Knowledge; D008678:Metaphysics; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010686:Philosophy, Medical; D011936:Reality Testing