Journal of Palliative Care & Medicine
Open Access

Abstract

In front of the technoscientific construction of medicine, philosophy must intervene by analysing the ethical issues that arise in the healthcare environment. This applied ethics approach is now the strongest link between care and philosophy. However, it is not the only one that can be conceived. There is currently a strong reflection on the end of life, supported in France by the palliative care movement. An important part of philosophy consists of a reflection on the meaning and value of life. However, this meaning is particularly questioned at the end of life. This reflection led by philosophy does not serve a purely speculative purpose. The Socratic maieutic is an example of support for others in their questioning. Is it possible to achieve a �philosophical care� for terminally ill patients? Psychology and religion have their place in the healthcare context. Can it be the same for an active philosophy? In this way, it could prevent that the dechristianisation of our society undermines existential assistance to patients at the end of life.

Biography

Alexis Ribereau has completed his master's in Human Science, with a speciality in philosophy, at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University in Paris, France, in 2013 when he was 22. After a work experience in the palliative care service in the hospital of Châteauroux (Indre, France) he continues his contribution to the ethic reflexion in Centre Val-de-Loire.

Email: alexis.ribereau@laposte.net