Ancient Traditions, Modern Insights: Dr. Wu Lien-Teh’s Influence on Chinese Medicine

Abstract

The debate between Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicine has persisted for over a century and continues today, particularly in regions outside China. Dr. Wu Lien-Teh, a distinguished Malayan physician and highly trained Western doctor, challenged conventional paradigms from a global perspective, rejecting the notion that medical practices should be judged solely by their geographical origins. In his seminal work, The History of Chinese Medicine, along with his biography, numerous speeches, and articles, Dr. Wu articulated a progressive vision for Chinese medicine that addressed both Chinese and Western medical communities. This paper examines Dr. Wu's perspective on Chinese medicine as one that transcends the traditional East-West dichotomy. By adopting a historical approach to analyse Wu’s interpretations of medical concepts within the socio-cultural context of the first half of the twentieth century, it explores Wu’s medical insights and their enduring impact in China and globally, highlighting their continued relevance and influence in modern medical practice.