Gadamer, Habermas and Ricoeur: Toward a Hermeneutic Philosophy of Care.

Abstract

This essay builds upon the dialogue with Missel and Birkelund's reflections on the contributions of contemporary hermeneutics-particularly the work of Paul Ricoeur-to health research. While endorsing these authors' central thesis, the present discussion seeks to extend the argument by advocating for hermeneutics' relevance to clinical practice as well. Drawing on the ideas of Gadamer, Ricoeur, and Habermas, the text critiques the excessive hegemony of techno-scientific knowledge over clinical practice and its harmful consequences for outcomes. It argues that revisiting Aristotle's distinction between theoria, techne, and praxis and fostering a genuine synergy among these spheres of rationality represents a potential hermeneutic contribution to the emancipatory reconstruction of health practices. The concept of Care is adopted as the philosophical horizon for this critical-hermeneutic reconstruction.