Ivan Illich, philosopher, historian, priest and social commentator died in Bremen, Germany on December 2, 2002. Illich was noted for his critique of the Church, education and medicine but his concepts dealt with more fundamental issues. This article reveals aspects of Illich, the man, and explores his ideas as they apply to the meaning of medicine and, in particular, the role of health care in contemporary society.

Authors and Affiliations

1. Center for Clinical Bioethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA

   Robert J. Barnet (Affiliated Scholar)

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