Published in Virtues and Principles in Healthcare

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med2015-01-02.pdf

In a complex and technologically sophisticated healthcare system, the utilization of virtues, which emphasizes the art of clinical practice, is often eclipsed by the technical science of its practice. Consequently, the training of physicians generally focuses on the objective and quantifiable science of clinical practice, which at times cripples the patient-physician relationship. To counter this impact on the patient-physician relationship, medical educators are developing pedagogical strategies to teach virtues to medical students and residents. But, can virtues be taught in medical school or in the clinic? To address this question, we explore how Aristotelian virtue theory can be integrated into the medical education experience, which leads to the formation of virtuous physicians. We then conclude by discussing issues surrounding the incorporation of virtues into the medical curriculum.