Chiropractic philosophy is the basis for the “why” of what we do as chiropractors. We (hopefully) study chiropractic philosophy in chiropractic college and if not, many chiropractors found a way to learn it on their own from reading the green books, books by modern chiropractic philosophers, seminars, or small study groups. However they have become familiar with chiropractic philosophy, it becomes the basis for why they correct vertebral subluxations.
Philosophy is a Tool
A tool representing ideas, which can help us to think and act. In chiropractic philosophy, we have the tool of deductive reasoning, our a priori assumption of universal intelligence and the thirty-three principles derived from that assumption. In our practices, we use philosophy to guide us in thinking about how to best help life to be expressed- by LACVS, and to assess analyses/techniques/instruments to find out if they align with our philosophy and meet our objective.
However, philosophy, and thus chiropractic philosophers, also have importance in our profession as a whole. Chiropractic philosophers can and do contribute to our profession by several means and the following are utilized by those focusing upon the correction of vertebral subluxation and removing interference to the expression of the mental impulse.
Chiropractic Organizations
Chiropractic organizations at every level would ideally have a philosophy committee to review the communications and output (such as seminars) of the organization to maintain the highest level of philosophical congruence.
Colleges
Chiropractic colleges benefit from working with philosophers to ensure that basic sciences are taught from a vitalistic perspective and that all instructors have a knowledge of chiropractic philosophy. Colleges also benefit from having philosophers review CE content for philosophical congruence. This applies as well to research projects funded by colleges as well as research done by independent chiropractic organizations.
Chiropractors
It may be time to think bigger. Consider taking a course such as the ACP (Academy of Chiropractic Philosophers) to deepen your philosophical understanding and then be prepared to reach beyond your practice and contribute to the betterment of this profession by ensuring that chiropractic philosophy is at the core of everything we do.
One Response
I love when people pit philosophy and science against each other. They are like siblings and the reason I am in chiropractic and not medicine is precisely because of the philosophy!