The Soul of Care
The Soul of Care is a thought-provoking book written by Arthur Kleinman, a renowned medical anthropologist and psychiatrist who has spent his career exploring the intersection of medicine, culture, and care. In this book, Kleinman draws on his own experiences caring for his wife, who was diagnosed with a rare form of early-onset Alzheimer's disease, to reflect on the nature of caregiving and the importance of compassion and empathy in healthcare.
Kleinman argues that the modern healthcare system has become too focused on efficiency and technology, and has lost sight of the human element of care. He notes that the traditional role of the caregiver, which was once highly valued, has been marginalized in our society, leading to a devaluation of the work of caring for others. Kleinman believes that we need to restore the importance of caregiving and recognize its vital role in promoting health and well-being.
Throughout the book, Kleinman shares his own experiences as a caregiver, and reflects on the challenges and rewards of this role. He also draws on insights from his research and work as a medical anthropologist, examining the ways in which different cultural traditions approach caregiving and the importance of cultural competence in healthcare.
Overall, The Soul of Care is a powerful and moving book that challenges us to rethink our approach to healthcare and caregiving. It is a must-read for anyone interested in improving the quality of care in our society, and a reminder of the essential role that compassion and empathy play in healing.
Author: Arthur Kleinman
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0525559345
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 139 reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #947,420 in Books
#1,233 in Health Care Delivery (Books)
#3,510 in Philosophy of Ethics & Morality
#31,355 in Memoirs (Books)