I must preface this post by saying that the following is just something I was kicking around today. I realize the comparison I speak of requires more rigorous intellectual vigor than I am able to give it right now. As they say, “this is only a test”. I am posting this because I am curious about what you think so please comment. I am open to whatever opinions you have. I’m not married to this idea. ?
Pharmacology provides to today’s civilization what myths did for ancient societies. Myths provided a foundation to live from. They were believed in and gave a sense of meaning and purpose to ones life.
Today we believe in human physiology and our control of it with pharmaceutical’s. The major problem with this is the belief in pharmacology does not give meaning to the universe and the human struggles within it. There is just physiological problem fixed with pharmacological solution. It’s deeply impersonal for the believer, the prescriber or user of the drug.
There’s no ritual designed to overcome some tribal problem. There is no metaphor for life, death and the afterlife. No guidance regarding sexuality or acceptable behavior. There’s just pop the pill and move on. In the current climate we find ourselves in, everything is questioned. There is no one way of living. But one can not argue with physiology. In the end, there is just man and his drugs.
Interesting thoughts. I am of the opinion that pharmaceuticals can be useful in that the extremes of emotions are mellowed, and we kill or maim each other less. It’s hard to believe, I know, but statistically speaking I have heard this is true. But used unwisely, they exacerbate the highs or lows and lead to more violence, or strong emotions. Unfortunately, I believe that religion was conceived to bring morality to the masses of humans, and as replace religion with science some of us need pharmaceuticals to cope.
Although I understand, and somewhat agree in what you’re saying, I believe that pharmaceuticals can help an individual most of the time. There are studies to support their use. And there are some who feel that taking the drug helps them, even if it’s a placebo unbeknownst to them. Healing is both physical and mental. If a person does not believe he/she will gain from a therapy method, then many times, he/she will not, despite the proven effects of a drug. For those suffering, the drug is their connection to control; i.e.; “If I take this drug/therapy, then I will improve/get better.” That being said, I don’t feel that a person should put his/her entire faith into a drug to “cure” the problem. There are many aspects that contribute to healing.
I’d substitute “religion” for pharmacology.
It follows your reasoning well.
As for pharmacology, its basis, to my thinking, is altruistic (for the good of humankind) and profiteering (for the good of the share holder).
Let the patient beware!