The document discusses the placebo effect and explores what placebo is, how belief can cure people and influence the physical body, and why the placebo effect works for some but not others. It examines evidence that placebo activates the endogenous opioid and immune systems in the brain. While the placebo effect seems to have evolved to conserve energy, harnessing its power ethically as a medicine requires more research on individual differences and how social contexts like a supportive doctor can enhance the effect.
4. Can Belief Cure People, a
nd How? Can We Control
the Placebo Effect? Why
Does it Work Well for Som
e People, but Not for Othe
rs? Can We Use It As a M
edicine, Also Ethically?
