Why Hippocrates did not advise treating people for free: Philosophical views of Hippocrates in brief

Suddenly? But the philosopher and the healer had an explanation for that. Now we will briefly explain the essence of his philosophical views.

Portrait of Hippocrates from the collection of the National Gallery of the Marche (Italy, Urbino)

Hippocrates went down in history as the “father of medicine”. At the time when he lived, it was believed that all diseases come from curses. Hippocrates had a different opinion on this matter. He said that curing diseases with conspiracies, spells and magic is not enough, he devoted a lot of time to the study of diseases, the human body, behavior and lifestyle. And, of course, he taught his followers, and also wrote medical works, in which he spoke on various topics, including those related to the payment of medical workers.

In particular, Hippocrates said:

Any work must be fairly rewarded, it concerns absolutely all spheres of life and all professions. “

And yet:

Do not treat for free, for those who are treated for free cease to value their health, and those who treat for free cease to appreciate the results of their labor. “

“Doctor: Avicenna’s Apprentice” (2013)

In the days of Ancient Greece, not all residents could afford a trip to a doctor because of any ailment. And it’s not a fact that they would have helped! Medicine is at the embryo level. The human body was not studied, the names of diseases were not known and were treated with folk methods, and sometimes they were not treated at all.

The father of medicine never denied his point of view about paying doctors, but he never shunned gratuitous aid to those in need.

Do not look for wealth or excess in life, sometimes heal for free, in the hope that you will be rewarded for that with gratitude and respect from others. Help the poor and strangers in whatever opportunity comes to you; for if you love people, you will inevitably love your science, your labors and often unpleasant thankless pursuits.

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