Publications

Publication details [#8759]

Penson, Richard T., Lidia Schapira, Kristy J. Daniels, Bruce A. Chabner and Thomas J., Jr. Lynch. 2004. Cancer as metaphor. 9 pp. URL
Publication type
Article in journal
Publication language
English

Abstract

Metaphors illuminate complex issues and can paint a thousand words. However, fundamental to individual and collective expression, they are also capable of creating or perpetuating stereotypes, and stigma. In oncology, the military metaphor is perhaps the most prominent, with the high profile of the "War on Cancer," and the imperative for patients to have a fighting spirit. Balancing the instinct to fight with words of healing and acceptance remains a challenge. The history of the military metaphor and how the humanities have illuminated cancer as a metaphor are reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of the use of this metaphor are discussed, as well as the use of other metaphors in the psychosocial dynamic of care. (Richard T. Penson, Lidia Schapira, Kristy J. Daniels, Bruce A. Chabner, Thomas J. Lynch, Jr.)