Concepts of disease in Ethiopia: From macro predator to microorganism

Abstract

Knowledge and understanding of concepts of disease is important in the delivery of veterinary services and how students learn in veterinary medicine. This study analyzes the conceptual and philosophical basis for epidemiologic advances and changing paradigms in Ethiopia from the historical and modern viewpoint of disease concepts. Our finding shows that, there existed a multiple of concepts of disease, in an interface of science and spirituality namely: predator, evil spirit, religious and biomedical; in chronology. Despite these concepts were diametrically opposing each other, the general public had not reject old concepts, simply all were amalgamated. Hence, Ethiopian farmers seek assistance from sorcery, traditional healers, priests and veterinary doctors. In traditional Ethiopian disease concept, major cause of disease was supposed evil spirit, which originated from metaphysics and cosmological belief. A similar crosscutting of concepts were observed among veterinary students and professionals. We suggest if an antagonistic relationship between science and religion is perceived by student the learning outcome will be superficial and will suppress further scientific progress. While a symbiotic relationship between science and religion will alleviate the apathy.