The case for a distinctive philosophy of physiology and pathophysiology

Abstract What is an organ and what is an organ system? According to the ‘standard’ hierarchical model of physiology, each living organism comprises of organ systems including those that offer sensory and control functions (nervous system), energy accumulation (gastrointestinal system), internal dissipation (circulatory system) and mobility (musculoskeletal system). Each organ system in turn is comprised of individual organs. This taxonomy has conceptual flaws as not every organ has a single organ system function but may participate in a myriad of physiological functions. To answer this philosophical question, several principles are applied. At one level, the assessment of physiological function and organ system can be considered to have some relation to the broader issue of the species problem in the philosophy of biology. Additionally, however, there is a relationship to the more fundamental issue of the biochemistry of each organ that can be considered through the philosophy of chemistry. The philosophy of physiology can therefore be considered to occupy a position somewhere between these two strata of thought on the path of science reductionism. A distinctive philosophy of physiology and pathophysiology may ultimately offer a myriad of new pathways through which to better explore the metaphysical elements of medicine and science.