Is Medicine An Art? Or A Science?

Discussion in 'Science and Technology' started by Jimbee68, Jul 13, 2023.

  1. Jimbee68

    Jimbee68 Member

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    I do have to tell you. Every other year I have to have a colonoscopy. I have colitis. It's fortunately under control, unlike my mother's case. But I have to sign a waver before each procedure. And it says medicine isn't exacting. Because it's an art, not a science.

    I'm sure they are just saying that to cover their butts, in case I feel the need to sue them for malpractice (which I am sure will never happen--I have a very good doctor). But it got me wondering.

    Is medicine a science? Or an art? Because I know the culinary sciences are a definite art. Psychology and psychiatry may be an art, I don't know. But what about medicine?
     
    Jimbee68, Jul 13, 2023
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  3. scratcho

    scratcho Lifetime Supporter Lifetime Supporter

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    Interesting question. I suppose science has brought the medical profession to where it is today, but then surgeons and some others could be considered artists with the skills they possess.
     
    scratcho, Jul 13, 2023
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  5. MeAgain

    MeAgain Dazed & Confused Lifetime Supporter Super Moderator

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    The main objective of art is to create objects, lights, or sounds that can be contemplated.
    The main objective of medicine is to correct a mental or physical imbalance or injury.
    Both require elements of science and skill but the objectives differ.

    Now as every human is different the results of any procedure or application of medicine can never be guaranteed. That's why you sign a waver.
    It's not like a doctor is working on the engine of a 55 Packard, all of them made to the same specifications in a factory, with the outcome of any procedure to be found in a Chilton manual.
     
    MeAgain, Jul 14, 2023
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  7. Kitbi

    Kitbi Members

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    Top chefs like Heston Blumenthal and others have demonstrated that cookery involves a huge understanding of science. Flavor combinations seem like art, but have a scientific basis for their success or failure. To the layman the culinary 'arts' and medicine are so amazing that they can seem, at times, to verge on magic
     
    Kitbi, Jul 15, 2023
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