Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-2015
Keywords
Qi, vitalism, materialism, science, traditional Chinese medicine, Neo-Confucianism, classical Chinese worldview, paradigms, TCM education
Abstract
It is difficult for traditional Chinese medicine to be fully accepted in modern healthcare because one of its key concepts – qi – is widely regarded as an example of vitalism, which has been discredited by modern science. Rather than try to establish scientifically that qi exists, or minimise or do away with this problematical concept altogether, traditional Chinese medicine must fully embrace its rich theoretical and cultural heritage and communicate it more effectively with the mainstream.
Recommended Citation
Wegmüller, K. (2015). The Problem with Qi: Vitalism, Science and the Soul of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The Journal of Chinese Medicine, (108), 43–49.