Redefining Reality - The Intellectual Implications of Modern Science

The problem here is that sometimes blepharospasms are natural,
and sometimes they are brought about by environmental causes.
The same is true, of course, of wrinkles. If we try to use natural or
unnatural to draw the line, we can’t separate the two uses of Botox
because wrinkles and eye spasms are equally natural.
There is, however, a difference. Although both eye spasms and
wrinkles may be natural in that they are a part of what nature had in
store for a person based on genetics and environment, in one case,
the treatment returns the person to a state where he or she can live a
normal life, and in the other case, the treatment isn’t necessary for
living a normal life. Perhaps, then, the difference between medical
normal.
Let’s consider another example. Macromastia, abnormal enlargement
of the breast tissue, is a medical condition that can result in pain,
ulceration of the skin around the breasts, and back problems. Breast
reduction surgery for such cases is considered medical.
Interestingly, the American Society for Plastic and
Reconstructive Surgeons has argued that breast enlargement
should be considered medical treatment for micromastia
(having small breasts), which can cause psychological or
argument, but it raises a question we need to consider:
Should psychological distress or cultural harm be considered
in deciding whether something is a disorder that requires a
medical response?
Disorder
(ADD). Without question, there are physiological reasons that some
people have shorter attention spans than others. This in itself has no
adverse medical effects. But in a culture that emphasizes schooling
of young children in preparation for college attendance, a short
attention span can seriously limit an individual’s options.
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