How Western Medicine Achieved Its Present Dominance

A Century of Inventions and Achievements

Western medicine is a science. Science involves understanding the cause and effect of a certain phenomenon. A scientific solution involves finding the cause of and ways to suppress or control a certain symptom. During the last century, there have been huge advances in science that have greatly affected our daily lives. We have grown to believe that everything has a scientific cause and solution. Things that are not scientific cannot be trusted. The Western physician today is in a highly respected profession. The expression "doctor's orders" symbolizes absolute obedience.

Looking back a century ago, the Western physician was in a much less commanding position. Western scientific medicine was competing with herbal medicine which dominated the medical scene for centuries. Starting in the late 19th century, through dramatic advances in medical knowledge, education, and practice, and in the wake of significant medical breakthroughs, the profession of the Western physician has been transformed into a respected and powerful one. For the past 50 years, miracle drugs and treatments have brought prosperity and status to many physicians and drug companies.

However, we are seeing signs that Western medicine is not a "cure-all" remedy. The various cardiovascular diseases, cancers, tumors, AIDS, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria are all signs that we might be entering a new era. Just like the "green movement" in reaction to other modern technologies, maybe it is time that Western medicine takes an environmental or holistic approach. As an educated consumer and potential patient, one should get a second opinion and learn about available alternatives.

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