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The traditional way of teaching
medicine and the way we practice it is referred to as the HISTORIC PARADIGM.
This paradigm is typically authoritarian i.e. the sources of teaching and
acquisition of skills are authority figures in the field. Authority figures
(eminent professors, clinicians) are considered experts. Such experts author
textbooks, meet in consensus conference to produce - based on their experience -
consensus statements. These textbooks and statements set the standards for
teaching and practice. The underlying assumption is that such professional
authorities represent
infallible and comprehensive
knowledge. One cannot argue with the role that comprehensive knowledge plays
in shaping the teaching and practice of medicine. On the other hand, the
assumption of an infallible knowledge, is open for question.
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