The interrelation of philosophy, religion, ethics, and medicine: a historical and cultural retrospective

Keywords: philosophy, religion, ethics, medicine, gods, mythology, charity, Ancient world, Middle Ages, Zoroastrianism, Avicenna

Abstract

The article analyzes the relationship of philosophy, religion and ethical issues with medicine. The development of these issues in the Ancient World and in the Middle Ages is shown, historical factors of influence are reviewed. On the example of the development of civilizations of the Ancient World, the Middle Ages, the activities of famous figures of the past, an attempt was made to show the connection between medicine, philosophy, religion, ethics and charity. Against the background of the development of mythological and religious ideas, a picture of the formation and development of a network of medical and charitable institutions (hospitals, almshouses, shelters for various purposes, etc.) is presented. Interesting information is given about the emergence of the main medical emblem (Mesopotamia), about such a phenomenon as embalming in Ancient Egypt, which was associated with the religious beliefs of the Egyptians of that time. The mention of the most famous doctor of Egypt of antiquity Imhotep, who was both a physician, and a state dignitary of high rank, and an architect, is not overlooked. The first Egyptian pyramid was built precisely because of the architectural talent of Imhotep, who was a physician, and a state dignitary of high rank, and an architect. Attention is drawn to the high moral requirements of cohabitation in ancient Indian society, the education and training of a doctor in the spirit of such high ethical requirements. The development of ancient Indian society subsequently led to the emergence of Ayurvedic medicine. The essence of Zoroastrianism is revealed. The drink of philosophical ideas on the emergence of the Chinese method of treatment - acupuncture is shown. Attention is focused on the main historical and cultural components of the high development of antiquity. Among the researchers of the past, special attention is paid to such the outstanding scientists as Aristotle, Lucretius, Maimonides, and most significantly to one of the greatest encyclopedic scientists in the world history of science - Avicenna.

Author Biography

Fedir Stupak, O. Bogomolets National Medical University

Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor, Professor of the Department of Philosophy, Bioethics and History of Medicine

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Published
2025-07-07
How to Cite
Stupak, F. (2025). The interrelation of philosophy, religion, ethics, and medicine: a historical and cultural retrospective. IDEAS. PHILOSOPHICAL JOURNAL. SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC ISSUES, (1(25)-2(26), 68-82. https://doi.org/10.34017/1313-9703-2025-1(25)-2(26)-68-82
Section
Philosophy of medicine