The Problem with Qi: Vitalism, Science and the Soul of Traditional Chinese Medicine

It is difficult for traditional Chinese medicine to be fully accepted in modern healthcare because one of its key concepts – qi – is widely regarded as an example of vitalism, which has been discredited by modern science. Rather than try to establish scientifically that qi exists, or minimise or do away with this problematical concept altogether, traditional Chinese medicine must fully embrace its rich theoretical and cultural heritage and communicate it more effectively with the mainstream.