Science in medicine: too much or too little and too limited in scope?

Abstract

Contrary to the common assertion that there is too much science in medicine, it is precisely the application of the natural sciences in the clinic that has enhanced the diagnostic and therapeutic powers of the physician. Much of the criticism of science in medicine mistakes the technology made possible by science, and the way that technology is employed, for science itself. What has hampered progress is too narrow a view of the sciences relevant to medicine. The concepts and methods of the social sciences must be integrated into medical education if physicians are to be enabled to respond effectively to illness as a human experience. Nonetheless, without major changes in the social context of medical practice, efforts to improve performance through curriculum reform will be futile.