260283 SE Common features of methods in complementary medicine (2009S)

Various medical systems originating from different ages and cultures are compared. First, we consider the evolution of Western medicine, especially homeopathy and scientific medicine. Recent developments in science (e.g., chaos theory) allow of new interpretations. This is also the case for several Eastern methods that are considered subsequently, e.g., Ayurveda (India) and the Traditional Chinese Medicine. Finally, new developments in Western medicine are included and compared with old ethnotherapeutic methods. It turns out that there exist suprising common features of methods that seem to be very different at first sight. A transcultural framework can be seen to emerge.