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The Emergence of Health in Complex Adaptive Systems: A Common Ground for Āyurveda and Western Science

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An Integrated View of Health and Well-being

Part of the book series: Cross-Cultural Advancements in Positive Psychology ((CAPP,volume 5))

Abstract

The logical framework underpinning Āyurveda and its model of health offers many cues that could be of great interest for a higher integration with modern science. However, there is a gap of communication between the two world based on the diverse representation of reality. Mainly, Āyurveda’s inclusive logic is not easily understandable according to Western scientific principles.

In this chapter we propose a model that may suggest how to fill this gap and infer a possible, integrated definition of health. After an overview on the conceptuality of the complex system logical framework, the inclusive thought and fundamentals underpinning Āyurveda are explained. The conclusion is that the reality model, and specifically related to bio-psycho-physiology, proposed by Āyurveda can be assimilated to a complex adaptive system whose emergent phenomena is health. The theoretical and practical implications are innovative and pave the way for an applied integration of the worlds.

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Morandi, A., Fave, A.D. (2013). The Emergence of Health in Complex Adaptive Systems: A Common Ground for Āyurveda and Western Science. In: Morandi, A., Nambi, A. (eds) An Integrated View of Health and Well-being. Cross-Cultural Advancements in Positive Psychology, vol 5. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-6689-1_10

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