A Journey into the Depths of Health: From Classical Definitions to Modern Approaches and Current Research Gaps
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1000/dns29v73Keywords:
Health Definition, Biomedical Model, Biopsychosocial Model, Social Determinants of Health, Holistic Health, Philosophy of Health.Abstract
The concept of health is a dynamic construct that has evolved significantly throughout history. This narrative review explores the trajectory of health definitions, moving from the classical biomedical perspective—focused on the absence of disease—to the landmark 1948 World Health Organization (WHO) definition emphasizing physical, mental, and social well-being. Despite the theoretical adoption of multidimensional models, significant gaps remain in their practical application. This article critically analyzes the current state of research, highlighting implementation gaps in the biopsychosocial model, the neglect of spiritual and cultural dimensions in wellness frameworks, and the challenges in addressing social determinants of health (SDOH). Finally, drawing upon recent philosophical inquiries, the review proposes a novel conceptual framework categorized by "Being," "Having," and "Doing," suggesting that health is an active process of existential alignment rather than a static state.
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