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Approximation and Negotiation: Clinical Pragmatism and Difference

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 1998

JOSEPH J. FINS
Affiliation:
The Hastings Center, Garrison, New York, and The New York Hospital, New York, New York

Abstract

When addressing cultural and religious differences in the clinical setting we need to be realists. Despite our public homage to pluralism and good intentions, it is just not possible to overcome all the differences that might exist and achieve perfect understanding of others. Try as we may, we will never be able to see perfectly the world through another's eyes. Instead of reaching for such perfection, we should instead reach for an approximation of shared understanding that will promote discourse and civility when peoples of different races, genders, cultures, religions, and sexual preferences interact in the clinic.

Type
SPECIAL SECTION: DIFFERENCE AND THE DELIVERY OF HEALTHCARE
Copyright
© 1998 Cambridge University Press

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