1. The Crisis of Dehumanization in Modern Medicine

• Definition of Dehumanization: It is the process where patients are "treated as less than fully human—perceived not as persons but as diagnostic puzzles, biological systems, or administrative burdens." It involves the "denial of mental states, emotional depth, moral worth, or spiritual dignity," leading to reduced empathy and ethical sensitivity among caregivers.
• Manifestations:Clinical Examples: A terminally ill patient discussed only by morphine dosage; a homeless man labeled a "frequent flyer"; a woman in labor treated as "a section at 6 a.m."
• Implicit vs. Explicit: Can be explicit (e.g., verbal neglect) or implicit, "embedded in institutional routines and clinical language (e.g., ‘the gallbladder in room 3’)."
• Systemic Roots: Often arises from "systemic pressures and anthropological deficits," not necessarily malice.
• Consequences: "Erodes patient trust, increases clinician burnout, and correlates with diminished quality of care." It is a "philosophical and moral issue," not just a matter of bedside manner.