The magic of science and the science of magic: An essay on the process of healing

Journal/Book: J Health Soc Behavior. 1997; 38: 1722 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036-2981. Amer Sociological Assoc. 1-8.

Abstract: The field of medical sociology has developed rapidly in recent years in sophistication of conceptualization and research techniques. Nonetheless, there remains a considerable amount of ''unexplained variance'' in knowledge about health and illness behaviors. This paper asserts that to grow further, medical sociology should become more interdisciplinary in conceptualization and design of research projects. The application of research findings from the field of psychoneuroimmunology to explain the effects of placebos as a form of magic is used as an illustration.

Note: Article Coe RM, St Louis Univ, Sch Med, Dept Family & Community Med, 1402 S Grand Blvd, St Louis,MO 63104 USA

Keyword(s): STRESS; IMMUNOCOMPETENCE; CULTURE; ILLNESS; CARE

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