John Turbott1. 1. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Science, School of Medicine, University of Auckland, New Zealand. s-j.turbott@xtra.co.nz
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To consider the claim that there is a fundamental epistemological conflict between religion and psychiatry over what constitutes rational explanation, and what impediment this might be to rapprochement between the two. CONCLUSIONS: An epistemological gap most certainly exists, but there is a growing acceptance of the importance of religion and spirituality to psychiatry. Rapprochement may best be achieved by increasing psychiatric awareness and knowledge of the issues, and by a willingness to embrace intellectual, cultural and religious pluralism.
OBJECTIVES: To consider the claim that there is a fundamental epistemological conflict between religion and psychiatry over what constitutes rational explanation, and what impediment this might be to rapprochement between the two. CONCLUSIONS: An epistemological gap most certainly exists, but there is a growing acceptance of the importance of religion and spirituality to psychiatry. Rapprochement may best be achieved by increasing psychiatric awareness and knowledge of the issues, and by a willingness to embrace intellectual, cultural and religious pluralism.
Authors: Greer Sullivan; Justin Hunt; Tiffany F Haynes; Keneshia Bryant; Ann M Cheney; Jeffrey M Pyne; Christina Reaves; Steve Sullivan; Caleb Lewis; Bonita Barnes; Michael Barnes; Cliff Hudson; Susan Jegley; Bridgette Larkin; Shane Russell; Penny White; LaNissa Gilmore; Sterling Claypoole; Johnny Smith; Ruth Richison Journal: Prog Community Health Partnersh Date: 2014