Christine Abbt teaches the module ‘Philosophy + Literature’ as part of the course ‘Philosophy + Medicine’ (CAS, MAS).
Philosophy and literature are in a productive relationship of tension. Both focus on language, seek precise expression and emphasise the connection between description and scope for action. In addition to their proximity, there are also differences. While the philosophical focus is on concepts and sentences, the literary focus is on texts, their design and effect. Relation and competition are outlined in the course using examples and the respective potential for current ethical questions in medical practice is reflected upon.
Medical practitioners repeatedly come up against the limits of their specialist knowledge in practice, particularly in situations involving fundamental scientific, ethical and social issues. This is where the Philosophy + Medicine programme comes in, reflecting on the fundamental questions and areas of tension in medicine from an overarching philosophical perspective. The programme teaches philosophical concepts and methods in order to reflect on borderline cases and areas of conflict in medicine.