Medicine and Compassion

Books Relating Medicine or Nursing

to the Understanding of Compassion

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Title: Medicine and Compassion: A Tibetan Lama's Guidance for Caregivers
Author: Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche with David R. Shlim
Publisher/Date: Wisdom, 2004

Book Summary: The authors state this is the first book linking Tibetan compassion guidelines to the practice of modern Western medicine. The authors, like those in psychology, point out the lack of information on compassion, and even the use of the word, throughout the medical literature. They also say that it is a myth that compassion can not be taught. Their book covers the basics of Buddhist compassion training including: impermanence, different kinds of compassion, the need for "genuine" compassion, relaxed mind, mediation, mind monitoring, role models and teachers, and coping with difficult situations in health care.

Comments: The book is presented using clear language and examples. It is easy to read. The only drawback is that it jumps around, and often makes leaps from basic to more advanced concepts with no bridge between. A few more actual before/after "case studies" of people in the health care profession who did develop stronger compassion would also help. There is continual mention of compassion as being part of out nature, but little mention of empathy. There is mention that compassion can be developed, but that idea is not explored except in giving instructions on how we might do that. Personally, being connected to the health profession, I found the book enjoyable. It is a good first step!

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