The Complex Reality of Pain

The book argues that pain is not an appropriate object of scientific generalisations or medical intervention, as it is complex and idiosyncratic. It provides an interdisciplinary overview of dominant models of pain and lays the groundwork for improved models and targeted treatments.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into a profound exploration of the nature of pain, challenging the conventional notion that it can be adequately understood through scientific generalizations or treated through medical interventions. Instead, the author argues that each pain experience is intricate and unique, rendering it incapable of being subjected to broad scientific explanations. Moreover, the book goes beyond offering novel arguments and developing a distinctive perspective on pain; it also provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary overview of prevailing models of pain. By laying the necessary groundwork for improved models and targeted treatments, the author aims to address the pressing need for advancements in pain science, pain medicine, and philosophy, which have been persistently seeking solutions but have yet to find them.

The Complex Reality of Pain is a captivating work that will appeal to a diverse audience of researchers and students, spanning various disciplines such as philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, cognitive science, neuroscience, medicine, health, cognitive and behavioural psychology, and pain science. This book offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing discourse on pain, providing a fresh perspective that challenges the traditional understanding of this complex phenomenon.

In the opening chapters, the author delves into the philosophical foundations of pain, exploring the concept of pain as an emotional experience and its relationship to the mind-body problem. The author challenges the notion that pain can be reduced to physical sensations or explained solely through neurological mechanisms, arguing that pain is a subjective and multidimensional phenomenon that cannot be reduced to a singular explanation.

The book then moves on to examine the scientific research on pain, highlighting the limitations of current models and the need for a more comprehensive understanding of pain. The author critiques the reductionist approach to pain, which views pain as solely a product of the brain or the body, and advocates for a holistic perspective that considers the psychological, social, and cultural factors that contribute to pain experiences.

Throughout the book, the author employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from philosophy, neuroscience, psychology, and other fields to shed light on the complex nature of pain. The author explores the role of emotions, memory, and cognitive processes in pain perception and argues that these factors play a crucial role in shaping our experiences of pain. The book also discusses the ethical implications of pain management and the challenges associated with treating pain, including the potential for harm and the need for a patient-centered approach.

In conclusion, The Complex Reality of Pain is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the nature of pain. By challenging the conventional understanding of pain and advocating for a holistic approach, the author provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between the mind, body, and emotions. This book will be of interest to researchers, students, and practitioners in the fields of pain science, medicine, and philosophy, as well as anyone who is interested in understanding the human experience of pain.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032337197