Krankheit und Sinn – einige philosophische Unterscheidungen

DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM: Is it meaningful to have a disease?—Apparently, this is an odd question. It is often assumed, however, that diseases can have meaning. ARGUMENTS: In the article differences in the meaning of the term in question (“Sinn”) are distinguished: linguistic meaning, purposes or motives, meaning in a narrative and contributions to the meaning of life. The last two interpretations, in particular, are of utmost importance: acceptance of disease as a part of life and disease as an impetus to reflect on the meaning of one’s life as a whole. CONCLUSIONS: In the latter sense, diseases might help us to lead a more meaningful life. However, diseases might also make it evident that ultimately there is absolutely no hope to lead a meaningful life.