Mental and physical gradualism in Graeco-Roman medicine

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to explore how ancient medical ideas offer relevant parallels to the modern notions of degree vagueness and combinatorial vagueness with respect to mental health and its management. By closely examining several key examples, this chapter argues that Graeco-Roman physicians recognized physical and mental health as states that admit of gradation and were aware of the nuances, variations, and even the relativity of the distinction between ‘healthy’ and ‘ill’. When it comes to notions of physical and mental health, these nuances are both quantitative and qualitative. One of the characteristics of Graeco-Roman medicine is the consideration given to a body–mind continuum as something that is subject to health and disease and can be the object of medical attention. Section 2 introduces ancient conceptions of physical health and demonstrates the relevance of degree and combinatorial vagueness in this domain. Section 3 focuses on mental health.

Systems of Classification in Premodern Medical Cultures

“…1.4-5. On the gradualist concept in ancient medical thought see Lewis, Thumiger and van der Eijk ( 2017) (as well as the items cited in the previous note).…”

A historical perspective on mental health: Proposal for a dialogue between history and psychology.

“…SeeThumiger (2016).13 Galen's gradualist view emerges clearly in the first book of his treatise Matters of Health. On his gradualist view, seeLewis, Thumiger, and van der Eijk (2017).14Mayer (2015).15 Apatheia was defined as "health of the soul" ( '␥ε ´␣ ˜) by Evagrius Ponticus in Praktikos 56 (SC 171: 630). Cf.…”

“…13Galen’s gradualist view emerges clearly in the first book of his treatise Matters of Health. On his gradualist view, see Lewis, Thumiger, and van der Eijk (2017).…”