ABSTRACT
We introduced this volume by noting both our aim of bringing together sociologically informed work on CAM and by arguing that such research can be defined by its pursuit of rounded, fully contextualised analyses that stand in contrast to the frequently superficial treatments engendered by the quest for answers to practical questions. The contributions in this book have underlined how an understanding of CAM requires more than an understanding of specific therapies or medications, their ‘objectively’ measured character or their efficacy. It also requires more than seeing CAM solely in its relation to orthodox medicine. Instead, an understanding is required of CAM as a social phenomenon, subject to social forces which are historically contingent. We also need to see both CAM therapists and orthodox practitioners as active agents, creating the social world of a health care system.
