title: [What does language tell us about pain?].
abstract: In this article the etymology and meaning of words relating to pain, suffering, compassion, etc. are being explored. An experience is reported about how pain and suffering may be both confronted in different ways from a clinically point of view, with different results for the patient. Different concepts about the meaning of pain according to classical, evolutionary and contemporary theories are being briefly examined. Also the different implications of psychological and physical pain are being mentioned, quoting authors such as Le Breton, Escardó, Sacks and Borges. Finally, a detailed analysis about the distinctions between empathy, sympathy and compassion is brought to focus, as well as the relevance of these notions in the medical approach. By means of conclusion, there is a reference to the typical attitude of the modern mind, denying and resisting pain, and philosophical texts (Lao-Tzé, Plato, Stefan Zweig) are quoted, warning us about the limits and dangers of such attitude.
authors: iabordelois@yahoo.com.ar.
authors: Ivonne
authors: I
authors: Bordelois
mesh_terms: D004645:Empathy; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D010146:Pain / Q000523:psychology*