Hegelian logic teaches that if something is true then the opposite is, in fact, not true. This logic, applied to the human organism, says that if we can know what is abnormal then we can know what is normal. It is upon this thinking that the practice of medicine is based. The M.D. is able to determine that a bodily function is abnormal. For example, when the blood pressure reaches a certain point, a CVA may occur, or other physiological functions take place that may lead to death. From this the physician concludes that at a certain point the blood pressure is considered to be abnormal. Hegelian logic teaches that for every thesis there is an antithesis. If there is a level that is abnormal, then there must be a level that is normal. That is logical. However, the physician makes his error in concluding that if he is able to ascertain what is abnormal, then he is also able to determine what is normal. Here is where the logic breaks down and for a very simple reason. You cannot use the same reasoning for the thesis and the antithesis. If certain signs and symptoms are indicative of abnormality it does not follow that the absence of those signs and symptoms are indicative of a state of normalcy. The signs and symptoms of an abnormal state can be set down, memorized, and determined by diagnostic evaluation. The signs and symptoms of a normal state are not known. This type of logic says “if it is not black, it is white” when in fact there are numerous other shades in the spectrum between black and white.
The problem in the medical realm then very clearly is attempting to ascertain a normal state using the same criteria with which an abnormal state is ascertained.
Example 1: X is present, it is known to be abnormal, therefore lack of X indicates a state of normalcy.
Example 2: Y is present. It is not known to be an indication of the abnormal, therefore Y is an indication of a state of normalcy.
You cannot use the same criteria for normal and abnormal. Being normal is a continually changing adapting activity. Its signs or symptoms, whatever they might be, are not the opposite of the signs and symptoms of abnormality.
Hegelian logic has its place and is valuable in certain philosophical discussion. In other situations it cannot be applied. John Calvin incorrectly applied Hegelian logic in coming to certain conclusions about predestination. Similarly those that utilize diagnostic methods, whether they call themselves chiropractors or medical doctors, base their thinking on the incorrect application of Hegelian logic. From this thinking they have based the entire practice of diagnosis.v3n4
