A perspective on characteristics and modern value of the apprentice system of ancient Chinese medicine / 国际中医中药杂志

ABSTRACT

The apprentice system is the principal succession method of ancient Chinese medicine. Masters pass down knowledge via verbal instructions as well as personal deeds, and apprentices are unconsciously influenced deeply within by what they see and hear from masters. That is where the strong point of the system. However, at the same time, apprentices are confined by their master’s instructions and learn only a part of the knowledge. It is the profound meaning rather than the form, that truly represents the modern value of the system. Traditional Chinese medicine stresses the cultivation of medical ethics, purification of learning motivation, study of classic works, solid foundation of basic skills and clinical practice. It also advocates that apprentices should be led and taught in accordance to his aptitude.