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Deepak Chopra presentations on 'alternative medicine' have more to do with entertainment than science |
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As a medical doctor, Deepak Chopra better prepared than a 'pure scientist' to speak to health and wellness issues In response to Professor Kuhn's letter to the editor [March 8], I would like to offer the following: Regarding the April 13 presentation by Deepak Chopra, M.D., at the Field House (1-4 p.m.), the price for a ticket - or I should quote Professor Kuhn, "steep" price - covers the expenses related to the lecture. Yet, the question that begs to be asked is, To what is this "steep" price being compared? As we all know, "free scientific debates," including scientific research and conventions, are supported by billions of dollars from public and private sources. Therefore, we must conclude that such "free" things are not always as they seem. In regard to Dr. Chopra being a "practicing scientist," Professor Kuhn is correct. Deepak Chopra is a medical doctor and hopefully a little better prepared than a physicist or a "pure scientist" to speak to health and wellness issues. It is also important to point out that this community event is co-sponsored with Bon Secours Hampton Roads. In the spirit of the university's mission to promote the sharing of various opinions, theories and practices, I have offered Professor Kuhn a forum to discuss his ideas about alternative therapies at a later date (we will be sure to do a "massive campus advertising campaign"). The last sentence in Professor Kuhn's letter sums up the scientific attitude that too often denies the power of the mind's ability to react to positive thinking, hope and, yes, even the belief in miracles. This scientific attitude relies on the Western medical model of always "prescribing" a scientific cure (either pills or surgery) for the symptoms. There are increasing numbers of people who believe in a complementary use of traditional medical approaches and other approaches which encourage individual responsibility for choices that impact health. Often, "alternative therapies" are used by people who have experienced no success with the traditional medical model. They are seeking ways to enhance their "quality of life," instead of a "cure," for their condition. I hope that those who read Professor Kuhn's letter and allowed him, the scientist, to tell them all that they needed to know about Dr. Chopra and his work, do save their money so that those who are more open-minded and who would like to hear other viewpoints and options will be able to attend. After all, isn't this university about education?
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