Alternative Medicine in the 1980s: The Cultural and Political Shift

Alternative Medicine in the 1980s: The Cultural and Political Shift

Alternative medicine has become a significant force in healthcare today. Many people are turning away from traditional medical practices and looking towards alternative medicine for better health and wellness. However, the origins of this trend go back several decades, particularly the 1980s. This was a decade of cultural and political shift, which played a significant role in the rise of alternative medicine. In this article, we will examine the cultural and political developments that kicked off the era of alternative medicine in the 1980s.

Rise in Consumerism

The cultural shift in the 1980s was fueled by a rise in consumerism. Americans were exposed to a new level of commercialism that created heightened expectations for personal health and well-being. People were seeking better healthcare options that catered to their individual needs and preferences. Alternative medicine provided the perfect solution.

Alternative Medicine Identity

During the 1980s, alternative medicine established its identity, and people began to take it more seriously. Many famous personalities such as Prince Charles, the Duke of Edinburgh, and actor Dudley Moore endorsed alternative medicine, which further popularized it. This was seen as a sign of recognition for alternative medicine and provided validation to its efficacy.

Political Influence

The political climate during the 1980s greatly impacted alternative medicine, particularly the government’s increased focus on wellness, health and preventive systems. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) was established in 1998, and since then, significant funding has been allocated to research various forms of alternative medicine.

Holistic Health Approach

The rise in alternative medicine also set the stage for alternative approaches to health care. The holistic approach to health and wellness began to emerge during this era, where alternative medicine was looked at as a complementary approach to conventional medical practices. It aimed to treat the whole person, not just the disease itself. Since then, various alternative therapies, including acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal medicines, have gained significant traction and remain popular to this day.

Conclusion

The cultural and political shift in the 1980s played a significant role in the rise of alternative medicine. It allowed people to look beyond traditional medical practices towards alternative therapies that catered towards personal preferences. Alternative medicine’s identity was established, and its efficacy was recognized, providing validation to its use. The rise in alternative medicine also provided a platform for a more holistic approach towards healthcare, aiming to treat the whole person and not just the disease. Today, alternative medicine remains a popular and vital aspect of healthcare, providing a range of choices for people seeking better health and wellness.

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