“The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down” portrays cultural differences between the American doctors and the Hmong parents who have contrary opinions regarding the child’s health problems. The two cultures collide based on beliefs and traditions. While the American doctors suggest the Hmong child suffers from a medical condition, the parents blame it on spiritual issues and superstitions. It is possible to empathize with both parties of the conflict. On the one hand, the doctors are basing their conclusion on facts and information they specialize in. Doctors tend to look at a problem from a scientific perspective and try to solve it using standard medical practices, medications, and prevention measures. On the other hand, the Hmong parents are sure their child is suffering spiritually rather than physically, blaming her condition on a loud noise that has caused her spirit to leave her body (Fadiman, 2007). This situation makes the reader reflect on whether there is a balance and a middle ground when it comes to two completely different cultures.
The doctors were not trying to empathize with the parents who, perhaps, lack knowledge or are too deeply consumed by their beliefs. Moreover, the parents were not subjective and did not follow the medical advice that could potentially benefit their daughter. I was challenged by the fact that I could not wholly empathize with the parents, which is understandable. It is a cultural-based experience, which is why not every reader can comprehend the parents’ decisions. However, this book made me realize how vital empathy is. Rather than blaming someone for basing their judgment on superstitions instead of logic, a middle ground would mean walking in someone else’s shoes and trying to come to a mutual understanding.
Reference
Fadiman, A. (2007). The spirit catches you and you fall down. Farrar Straus & Giroux Inc.