Description
Psyche and Soma is a multi-disciplinary exploration of the history of understanding of the human mind or soul and its relationship to the body, through the course of more than two thousand years. Thirteen specially commissioned chapters, each written by a recognized expert in the field, explore in chronological sequence the views of influential writers on such questions as the soul's immortality, the control it exerts over the body, how mental disturbances can arise out of bodily imbalances, and the roles of the priest and the physician in promoting spiritual welfare. The main figures whose views are treated include the doctors Hippocrates, Galen, H. Boerhaave, and Wm. Cullen, theologians such as the Apostle Paul, Augustine, and Thomas Aquinas, and philosophers from Plato and Aristotle to Descartes and Leibniz. Psyche and Soma will be a key point of reference and a rich source of illumination in this central area of human inquiry.
About the Author
John P. Wright is Professor of Philosophy in the Department of Philosophy and Religion, Central Michigan University. Paul Potter is Professor of the History of Medicine at the University of Western Ontario.
Reviews
Well presented ... this book is a thoughtful introduction to the soul-body relationship and its continuing relevance. * Medical History *
The book would make a good resource for a library ... because the history of metaphysics informs current metaphysical thinking, it is worthwhile for those interested in the philosophy of mind today to work through books such as this one. * Philosophia Christi *
This is a focused collection, with very specific interests and objectives. As such, it can make a valuable contribution to this complex and endless debate, and allow readers to tidy up their thoughts on the body-soul relationship. It certainly helped me to put my thoughts in order on several aspects of this vast subject. * The Classical Review *
Timely and important volume ... Psyche and Soma is an important resource for scholars in the history of science, medicine and philosophy and will stimulate discussion of these issues for many years to come. * Religious Studies *
Book Information
ISBN 9780198238409
Author John P. Wright
Format Hardback
Page Count 312
Imprint Clarendon Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 596g
Dimensions(mm) 241mm * 162mm * 22mm
About the Author
John P. Wright is Professor of Philosophy in the Department of Philosophy and Religion, Central Michigan University. Paul Potter is Professor of the History of Medicine at the University of Western Ontario.
Reviews
Well presented ... this book is a thoughtful introduction to the soul-body relationship and its continuing relevance. * Medical History *
The book would make a good resource for a library ... because the history of metaphysics informs current metaphysical thinking, it is worthwhile for those interested in the philosophy of mind today to work through books such as this one. * Philosophia Christi *
This is a focused collection, with very specific interests and objectives. As such, it can make a valuable contribution to this complex and endless debate, and allow readers to tidy up their thoughts on the body-soul relationship. It certainly helped me to put my thoughts in order on several aspects of this vast subject. * The Classical Review *
Timely and important volume ... Psyche and Soma is an important resource for scholars in the history of science, medicine and philosophy and will stimulate discussion of these issues for many years to come. * Religious Studies *
Book Information
ISBN 9780198238409
Author John P. Wright
Format Hardback
Page Count 312
Imprint Clarendon Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 596g
Dimensions(mm) 241mm * 162mm * 22mm
