Sixteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

Texts in medical fields routinely tell stories in the form of case studies to illustrate clinical problems. In typical case histories, data are clearly organized and care is taken to assure that readers are alerted to the most relevant clinical issues. However, this lack of texture, the absence of complexity and the distillation of complex interpersonal interactions into brief summary statements can promote an oversimplification of clients’ lives. On the other hand, fictional lives are often “messy” and, in most enduring literature, defy reductionist interpretation. Study in the humanities can provide a unifying frame of reference for engaging health care practitioners in exploring: 1) the multiple etiological factors contributing to the conflict; 2) characters’ perceptions of the conflict; 3) why characters chose the solutions to conflicts they did; and, 4) the outcomes of the paths chosen. Neuroimaging techniques now allow scientists to map the neural pathways associated with complex brain activity; for example, to “see” the brain experience emotions such love, anger, and fear. However exciting these advances have been in expanding our knowledge of the brain, we must retain and value efforts to understand the mind and the equally complex processes which makes us “human.” Holistic medical interventions draw upon the humanities to incorporate art, music, journaling, and bibliotherapy in various treatment modalities and as self-care strategies for practitioners. This discussion focuses on the essential role of the humanities in shaping the values, ethics and attitudes of healthcare providers and, by extension, in improving the quality of healthcare.