When people fall seriously ill, they often seek to understand the role their illness plays in their lives. In many cultures, one interpretation is particularly common: illness as punishment. A public conference on 30 and 31 July will examine the social, religious and medical-ethical aspects of this phenomenon. It is being organised by the Institute of the History, Philosophy and Ethics of Medicine at Ulm University.
Why has this happened to me? What have I done wrong? Is this God’s punishment? People with serious illnesses all over the world ask themselves questions like this. Whilst such an interpretation can help people make sense of illness in their own lives, it can also hinder recovery. The talks at the German-language conference ‘Illness as Punishment?’, which takes place on 30 and 31 July at the Barbara Mez-Starck-Haus at Oberberghof, address various aspects of this complex subject area. Topics include the patient, care and pastoral support perspectives, so-called ‘healing churches’ and the risk to children’s welfare. The conference is being held in collaboration with Professor Regina Radlbeck-Ossmann from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. The public is warmly invited!
“Illness may be understood individually as a punishment if a person experiences their illness in that way,” explains Professor Florian Steger, Director of the Institute of the History, Philosophy and Ethics of Medicine, which organised the conference. For example, one might ask oneself whether one has caught an infection because one has not always been honest with others. “One can also interpret this in religious terms and draw a connection to God and sin – but that need not necessarily be the case. The idea that gods can send and take away illnesses has been with us since Homer,” says Steger. Precisely because even experts find it difficult to explain some illnesses, it is possible that those affected may see punishment as an explanation.
However, those who view illness as a punishment often experience feelings of guilt and anxiety. These are accompanied by a search for irrational explanations and for ways to achieve a cure by atoning for the punishment. “This is where hazardous actors can find a foothold,” warns the medical ethicist: “Those affected become vulnerable to people who feed this sense of guilt, profit from it and thus harm sick adults and children.” Those who rely on miracle healers miss out on vital diagnosis and treatment; valuable time is lost, and lives are put at risk.
In this context, Professor Steger also draws attention to conversion therapies – which are banned in Germany – that aim to change or suppress sexual orientation or gender identity. “This reinforces homosexuals’ self-stigmatisation and their perception that their homosexuality is a punishment. As a result, they can become ill, develop depression or even become suicidal. That is why it is extremely dangerous,” says Steger. Homosexual people need, rather, affirmative therapy that supports and empowers them.
Event schedule
for the conference “Illness as Punishment?”
When: Thursday 30 July, from 1 pm, and Friday 31 July, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Barbara Mez-Starck-Haus, seminar room on the 3rd floor, Oberberghof 7, 89081 Ulm
Please register in advance: Prof. Dr Florian Steger, Tel.: (0731) 50 39901, Email: med.gte(at)uni-ulm.de
Further information:
Prof. Dr Florian Steger, Tel: (0731) 50 39901, Email: med.gte(at)uni-ulm.de
Professor Steger is available for interview requests.
Text and media contact: Christine Liebhardt