History of medicine's categorization of gender
In the past, medicine has been based on the idea that there are only two genders: male and female. This is reflected in the way medicine has categorized people into these two categories, from birth certificates to medical records.
Some forms still require patients to identify as either male or female, without any option for those who do not fit into these categories. Similarly, many medications have been developed based on assumptions about what works best for men versus women, often resulting in drugs that work differently for transgender individuals. Even today, some healthcare providers continue to use outdated language and concepts when referring to gender, which can be alienating and disrespectful to non-binary individuals.
The role of binary logic in medicine
Binary logic has also played a major role in the development of modern medicine. It was once believed that the human body was made up of four humors - blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile - which needed to be balanced to maintain health. This led to the belief that illnesses could be treated by removing excess humor through bleeding or vomiting, or adding it back with herbs or food. Binary thinking also informed the development of the scientific method, which treats knowledge as consisting of propositions that can be true or false. This has shaped how medicine is practiced, with an emphasis on finding "truth" rather than exploring multiple perspectives.
Challenging binary logic in medicine
This binary approach to medicine is being challenged by researchers and healthcare providers who recognize that there are more complexities involved in understanding human biology and behavior. Some argue that medical treatments should take into account individual variation within populations, rather than relying solely on average values. Others point out that certain diseases may affect people differently depending on their backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors. There is also growing recognition that gender is not simply male or female, but can encompass a wide range of identities and expressions.
Embracing diversity in medicine
To truly embrace diversity in medicine, we need to move beyond binary thinking and recognize the complexity of human bodies and experiences. This means acknowledging the limitations of traditional categories and developing new ways of understanding gender, race, and other social constructs. It also requires investment in research and education that considers the unique needs of marginalized communities, as well as changes to policies and practices that support inclusivity.
Can medicine fully embrace diversity when its categories are historically grounded in binary logic?
It is difficult for medicine to completely embrace diversity as it has been historically rooted in binary logic. The idea of male and female bodies being two distinct categories is entrenched in Western medical practices, which have shaped our understanding of gender differences. Moreover, the way diseases are classified into different types based on certain symptoms also relies on this concept.