pharmacon
Pharmakon is a term of ancient Greek origin (pharmakon) that denotes a substance used as drug, potion, remedy, or poison. In both historical and contemporary contexts, the word captures the ambivalence of substances that can heal or harm, depending on factors such as dosage, preparation, and usage.
Etymology and historical use. The Greek word phármakon encompasses a range of meanings from medicine to poison.
Philosophical significance. The concept gained particular prominence in philosophy and literary theory as a lens for
Modern usage and derivatives. In contemporary science, pharmacology studies how substances interact with living systems to
In sum, pharmakon embodies the ancient and enduring idea that medicines and other agents can restore health