Introduction

Abstract

Abstract Contrary to the widespread perception that the ‘spiritual dimension’ of health is primarily related to palliative care and has emerged relatively recently within the WHO, its history is considerably longer and more complex. The emergence of a ‘spiritual dimension’ in WHO discourse was connected to aspirations for universal primary healthcare, attempts to deliver a more holistic form of healthcare, and the search for a shared ethical framework to unify the disparate national interests represented in the organization. This chapter introduces the reader to the background, rationale, and broader context of the book, and makes some preliminary observations about the topic. It then gives a brief overview of previous research on religion, spirituality, and the World Health Organization, and explains the scope and method used to build on this literature. It concludes with an overview and brief introduction to each chapter in the book.