Abstract
Elizabeth Barnes’ book Health Problems: Philosophical Puzzles About the Nature of Health conducts philosophical examination of the nature of health. She coined the term ameliorative skepticism: a theory stating that we should not try to fix or redefine our current definitions of health. Instead, Barnes composed the term to show that health has no coherent, unified definition that works for every person or scenario. This idea from Barnes leaves us asking questions: how is ameliorative skepticism practiced across the world? Can we practically apply it? If so, how do we go about it? This essay will address three major points regarding Barnes’ understanding of health. First, the essay will analyze the concept of ameliorative skepticism regarding Barnes’ separation of health from well-being. Second, it will explore the philosophy of health, the general practices, foundational beliefs, and specific cases through the lens of Buddhism and Hinduism practices. These studies will be used to critique Barnes’ idea of ameliorative skepticism and show how cultures have lived through unifying health and wellness for treatment. Third, the essay will explore two possible solutions that arise from the critique: either acceleration or rejection of ameliorative skepticism. It will fill in the cultural perspective gaps in Barnes’ writing of health through the themes and ideas of Buddhist and Hindu practices.
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