Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20596663
Philosophy as a Response to Psychological Suffering in the Healthcare System: The Therapeutic Potential of Ancient Thought in Contemporary Clinical Care
Ivana Lalić Čičković
; Faculty of Philosophy and Religious Studies, University of Zagreb, Zagreb
Abstract
This paper takes as its starting point the ancient idea that philosophy is not primarily a theoretical discipline but a practical activity oriented toward the shaping of life and the care of the soul. In this context philosophy is understood as therapeutics, that is, as a means of liberation from fears, false beliefs, and inner unrest that cause suffering. The central aim of the paper is to show that Epicurus's understanding of philosophy as "healing of the soul" holds particular value in the contemporary healthcare and clinical context, where patients face not only physical illness but also existential anxiety, fear of death, loss of control, and questions of meaning. Through an analysis of Epicurus's foundational texts, in particular the Letter to Menoeceus, the Letter to Herodotus, and the Tetrapharmakos, the paper shows that philosophy has a clear therapeutic function, namely the removal of fear of the gods and of death, the critique of disordered and insatiable desires, and the orientation of life toward simple yet stable sources of pleasure and peace. Key concepts of Epicurean philosophy, such as ataraxia (psychological calm, Greek ataraxia) and aponia (absence of bodily pain, Greek aponia), are interpreted as a form of "health of the soul," which plays the same role as bodily health does in medicine. Particular emphasis is placed on the application of philosophy in clinical practice. Here philosophy is understood as a complement to medical treatment, especially through communication with patients, work with fear and suffering, and the clarification of beliefs that intensify the psychological burden of illness. In conclusion, the paper shows that philosophy, understood as therapy of the soul, can contribute significantly to a more humane and comprehensive approach to health, in which not only the body but also the inner world of the person is treated.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
348984
URI
Publication date:
1.9.2026.
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