Dogmatic school

Dogmatic School

Illustration from De Medicina

The Dogmatic School was an influential school of thought in ancient medicine that emerged in the Hellenistic period. It is characterized by its emphasis on theory and the application of philosophy to medical practice. The Dogmatic School is often contrasted with the Empiric school, which focused more on practical experience and observation.

Historical Background

The Dogmatic School traces its origins to the teachings of Hippocrates, who is often regarded as the "Father of Medicine." Hippocrates and his followers believed in the importance of understanding the underlying causes of diseases, which they thought could be explained through natural laws and rational thought. This approach laid the foundation for the Dogmatic School's emphasis on theoretical knowledge.

Key Principles

The Dogmatic School advocated for a systematic approach to medicine, which included:

• Etiology: Understanding the causes of diseases was considered essential. The Dogmatists believed that knowing the cause of a disease would lead to more effective treatments.
• Anatomy and Physiology: The study of the human body and its functions was crucial. The Dogmatists emphasized the importance of anatomical knowledge in diagnosing and treating illnesses.
• Philosophical Foundations: The Dogmatic School integrated philosophical concepts, particularly those from Aristotle and Plato, into medical theory. This included ideas about the balance of the humors and the role of the soul in health.

Influence and Legacy

The Dogmatic School had a significant impact on the development of Western medicine. Its emphasis on theory and the search for underlying causes influenced later medical thinkers, including Galen, who further developed and expanded upon Dogmatic principles.

The Dogmatic School's approach to medicine laid the groundwork for the development of medical science as a discipline that combines both theoretical and practical knowledge. Its legacy can be seen in the continued importance of understanding disease mechanisms in modern medicine.

Related Pages

• Hippocrates
• Galen
• Empiric school
• Hellenistic period
• History of medicine