“Neuralcentrism ”: A new term for an old concept. A proposal for the introduction and assimilation of this novel term into the chiropractic lexicon. John J. Collins, DC Private Practice Newberg, OR 2007 INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND PHILOSOPHY SYMPOSIUM (IRAPS): The Science and Philosophy of the Mental Impulse November 2-4, 2007 Sherman College Of Straight Chiropractic- Spartanburg, SC

“Neuralcentrism” Introduction Ian Coulter PhD. 1991: “Articulating and clarifying the concepts and constructs of chiropractic” is of paramount importance to our profession if we are to expand our cultural authority*. *Coulter, I. Chiropractic Philosophy Has No Future. The Chiropractic Journal of Australia. 1991;21:

“Neuralcentrism” Introduction I propose that a new, highly precise term is needed that clearly describes chiropractic’s unique paradigm. Neuralcentrism: “To acknowledge the primacy of the nervous system and to therefore focus special attention on its structure and function.”

“Neuralcentrism” Introduction (continued) Early 1900s: Neuralcentrism (primacy of the nerves) is what differentiated early chiropractic from osteopathy* ACC Chiropractic Paradigm ‘Principle’: “The body's innate recuperative power is affected by and integrated through the nervous system.”** *Palmer, David Daniel Three Generations: A History of Chiropractic. Davenport, IA.:PSC: **ACC. Chiropractic Paradigm:

“Neuralcentrism” Introduction (continued) In fact, ‘Straight’ Chiropractic is founded upon ‘neuralcentrism’! 5/11

“Neuralcentrism” Discussion Lexicon: The vocabulary of language. Any language that stops changing signifies a stagnant culture. Dynamic sub-cultures have dynamic lexicons. Example: computers/internet

“Neuralcentrism” Discussion (continued) Nelson et. al 1995:.. “The chiropractic profession has failed to define itself in a way that is understandable, credible and scientifically-coherant.” * *Nelson, C. et. al. Chiropractic As Spine Care: A Model For The Profession. Journal of Chiropractic and Osteopathy 2005, 13:9

“Neuralcentrism” Discussion (continued) Coulter 1991: Chiropractic philosophy is actually a conglomeration of 6 philosophies: *Coulter, I. The Chiropractic Journal of Australia 1991;21: Chiropractic Philosophy VitalismHolism Therapeutic Conservatism Naturalism Critical Rationalism 8/11

“Neuralcentrism” Discussion (continued) ‘Vitalism’ although commonly used to describe chiropractic, is an insufficient term. Vitalism defined: “A doctrine that the processes of life are not explicable by the laws of physics and chemistry alone and that life is in some part self-determining*.” What does this have to do with adjusting the spine/correcting subluxations? *Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary

“Neuralcentrism” Conclusion ‘Neuralcentrism’, as defined above, is a cornerstone of chiropractic thinking and clinical practice. ‘Neuralcentrism’ sets chiropractors apart from other healers/health professionals who claim to embrace vitalism, holism etc.

“Neuralcentrism” Conclusion (continued) Therefore….. This term should be adopted into the chiropractic lexicon and used when appropriate within the chiropractic realm

“Neuralcentrism” Questions?