Chapter 1 Definitions

Question 1

Academic medicine

Answer 1

That practice of medicine in which the practitioner is mainly concerned with the development of new knowledge.

Question 2

Organic

Answer 2

One of the languages in which patients can be described (Graham, 1967). If one thinks in terms of mind-body dualism, “organic” refers to the body. However, it is increasingly clear that events in the psyche have a biochemical manifestation. Because the term “organic” is hardly ever used correctly, it should be dropped from our vocabulary. Unfortunately, it is well-entrenched in misbegotten expressions such as “organic brain syndrome”.

Question 3

Psychogenic

Answer 3

Caused by the psyche. This term should only be used on those rare occasions in which this mechanism has been clearly demonstrated. It should not be used as a synonym for “imaginary”, “functional”, or any other adjective used to cover the physician’s own ignorance or uncertainty.