[Directions in the theoretical justification of treatment in German medicine of the first half of the 19th century].

The study presents the contemporary state of research in the historiography of medicine, with regard to the main currents in the theoretical justification of treatment in German medicine of the first half of the 19th century. Researchers distinguish three main currents: vitalist-eclectic, dynamic, and the current based on the precepts of German philosophy of nature (Naturphilosophie), especially the approach of F. Schelling. The article presents the underlying assumptions of each of the three currents; it presents their main representatives as well. The authors also analyses the background for the reception in Germany of medical theories and doctrines of a non-materialist character, making reference to factors of a socio-cultural nature.