Introduction

This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part provides an absorbing commentary on some of the historical and sociological features that differentiate ‘complementary’ forms of medicine from those that have come to be accepted within current orthodoxy. It also provides differing opinions on why people may have embraced Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The part addresses the issue of ethics in CAM. Ethics and ethical standards are increasingly important in a whole range of areas of social life – from genetics to marketing. The part outlines the prevalence of CAM usage in the UK. It discusses some of the key contextualising issues that affect the acceptance of CAM and its role in contemporary UK society. Dividing up CAM into various categories is a contentious and difficult exercise; however, it is a necessary task for the purposes of policy.