Understanding the Meaning of Doubt, Despair, and Belief in Caring Sciences

Abstract

Healthcare professionals encounter patients' and relatives' expressions of doubt, despair, and hope in relation to illness and suffering. These feelings and experiences are often challenging for patients, relatives, and carers to face. The article's purpose is to describe and discuss how the meaning of doubt, despair, dread, and belief can be understood through Kierkegaard's and Spinoza's philosophical thoughts, thus contributing to a deeper understanding of caring and knowledge in caring science. Dread, doubt, and despair have their roots in grief and powerlessness but are also connected to belief and faith, which create an inner strength that can alleviate suffering.