Perceiving the mind in homoeopathic practice: A book review

Book Title : Perceiving the Mind in Homoeopathic Practice

Authors : Dr. Manoj Patel and Dr. Madhavi Tamboli

Publisher : Dr. M. L. Dhawale Memorial Trust

Year of publication : 2022

Edition : First

Pages : 152

Content : 10 Chapters and a Case Index at the end of the book

The book is essentially based on Hahnemannian philosophy, its interpretation by Dr. M. L. Dhawale, available through expositions in the Symposium Volumes, ICR Operational Manual and various other publications of the MLD Trust.

The book can be seen in the following parts – each closely interwoven with the other.

• Part 1: Setting the perspective of mind in homoeopathy (Chapter 1)

• Part 2: The skills and challenges in exploring the mind of the patients (Chapter 2, 3)

• Part 3: The foundational model of the psyche (Chapter 4, 6, 7). A model of the psyche based on well-proven theories and concept is critical for every homoeopathic physician and this book exactly presents this

• Part 4: Training of the physician (Chapter 5, 10)

• Part 5: Living Materia Medica.

The book is a short yet exhaustive exposition on how a homoeopathic physician should approach the study of the mind. It follows the pattern of Concept->Case-> Concept. Every chapter introduces the philosophical concepts, then demonstrates their application through rich clinical cases and concludes by reiterating the concepts as freshly learned through those cases. The illustrative case studies are the most significant part of the book. Every dimension of the subject is supported with a case study, thus augmenting manifold the understanding of this rather abstract subject. This will allow the readers to understand and apply the concepts in their clinical practice.

The book is also an account of the wonderful and fulfilling journey of a homoeopathic physician and his quest to understand the mind. The narrative draws the readers into looking at their clinical journey, allows reflection and, in turn, helps us to be more aware of the prejudices, thereby laying the ground to become an unprejudiced observer. This book essentially serves a very important purpose of bringing Dr. M. L. Dhawale’s philosophy and concepts within the reach of all homoeopaths. The book gives a 360° view of approaching the psyche in homoeopathy.

The book also mentions the use of counseling techniques with several interesting case examples. These would bring to the table of the homoeopath yet another underestimated and overlooked tool in treating his patients.

For the seekers who wish to deep dive, the authors have given references to the ICR Symposium Volumes and other literature at every juncture.

While they have successfully attempted in bringing the teachings of Dr. Hahnemann and Dr. M. L. Dhawale to the common homoeopaths, they are aware of the possible bias that could have crept in. This is countered by the authors through writing their short biographical sketches at the beginning of the book.

While the authors have presented a comprehensive approach to mental in homeopathy, a detailed index would have been very useful. Likewise, a detailed separate bibliography at the end of the book could have been extremely useful for further researchers and practitioners.

The interesting part of the book is while each chapter is interwoven with the other, it is also a standalone piece of knowledge or skill for the homoeopath. Hence, the structure allows the homoeopath to follow his curious mind while reading it. One may choose to wander and meander through the chapters, collect one significant piece of this large jigsaw and then move on to any other chapter picking up another piece. At the end of studying all the chapters, the homoeopath will have a comprehensive 360° view of approaching and dealing with the mind in homoeopathic practice.

The book cover is equally interesting; it has an image inspired by Rene Magritte’s La reproduction Interdite (Not to be Reproduced) 1937. The author has described it in the book as ‘It represents the back of the physician and an unknown patient in the mirror. The back is, the least visually accessible and therefore is the most vulnerable side of the physician. The ICR training system with the external observer and supervisor provides the opportunity for the physician to look at his ‘back’!’

Overall Appearance and Readability: Excellent paper quality and clear fonts make reading this book a joyful experience.

The book is an extremely timely one. It brings to light the Hahnemannian philosophy alongside the elaboration of this philosophy by Dr. M. L. Dhawale and helps to understand the mind in an extremely scientific and evidence-based manner. It is highly recommended for all students, researchers, and practitioners of homoeopathy.