On Clinical Diagnosis and Prediction

Abstract

This paper distinguishes among three different modes of comprehending through which diagnostic and predictive clinical judgments are reached. A brief discussion and definition of each of these modes, that is, inference, empathy, and intuition, are offered in order to indicate that differentiation is possible. It is felt that continued exploration of these processes promises to provide more fruitful understanding of what is now often accepted merely as inexplicable and “uncanny” clinical judgment.