Book review: Fallacy-free reasoning in medicine

Fallacy-Free Reasoning in Medicine: Improving Communication and Decision Making in Research and Practice

Author: Milos Jenicek
Publisher: American Medical Association, 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60359-099-0

Published more than 15 years ago, this interesting perspective on health communication remains valid today.

“Medical errors are not only a question of a physician's learned knowledge, practical skills, experience, fatigue, stress, faulty technology, difficult patients, emotional state, and personal life projections. Medical errors also occur as the result of a physician's faulty reasoning, communication, and ensuing decision making.” (p. 134)

With this powerful observation, Milos Jenicek invites us into the core argument of Fallacy-Free Reasoning in Medicine - that fallacies in reasoning are an under-recognised but significant contributor to poor decision making in both clinical and research contexts. In this remarkable work, Jenicek guides medical and health professionals through the often-neglected terrain of argumentation theory, logic, and critical thinking as applied to medicine.

Drawing on his extensive experience in logic and critical thinking, Jenicek bridges the disciplines of philosophy and medicine with clarity, wit, and scholarly depth. This book is not simply about logic in the abstract—it is a practical, structured, and thought-provoking toolkit for understanding and avoiding flawed reasoning that can lead to real-world consequences.

Introducing argument-based medicine

The opening chapter lays the groundwork for what Jenicek terms “argument-based medicine,” a concept that complements and enriches evidence-based medicine. Here, he sets out the principles of sound argumentation and explains why critical thinking skills are essential for healthcare professionals. Rather than simply accepting evidence or guidelines at face value, practitioners must assess how arguments are constructed, whether premises are valid, and how conclusions are drawn. This lens is especially important in an era where rapid-fire medical information—and misinformation—abounds.

Fallacies in medical research and literature

Chapter Two delves into the specific fallacies commonly found in medical research. Jenicek demonstrates that errors in logic are often buried in statistical interpretation, flawed study designs, or overreaching conclusions. He explores examples of confirmation bias, post hoc fallacies, and appeals to authority—errors that can distort research findings and mislead practitioners and policymakers alike.

One of the book’s great strengths is its real-world relevance. Jenicek doesn’t speak only to philosophers or academics; he writes for practicing clinicians, researchers, educators, and students. He shows how subtle misinterpretations in research can lead to inappropriate clinical applications and public health decisions.

Language, logic, and professional responsibility

In Chapter Three, the focus shifts to communication. Jenicek makes a compelling case for reasoning as a professional competency—on par with clinical knowledge and procedural skill. He emphasises that good reasoning supports ethical decision making and fosters trust with colleagues, patients, and the broader public. Miscommunication is not always a result of unclear language; sometimes, it is the product of faulty logic.

Here, Jenicek’s writing is particularly engaging. His integration of philosophical concepts is lightened with humour and accessible examples. The section whimsically titled "A Note about bullshit, humbug, crap, and garbage in connection with fallacies" (p. 21) is a brilliant piece of levity that nevertheless underscores a serious point: sloppy reasoning, however packaged, is dangerous in medicine.

Dialogue across worlds: Reasoning with others

Chapter Four expands the scope to communication with patients, the public, and other stakeholders. Jenicek introduces the idea of “someone else's world of reasoning” and reminds us that effective communication isn't just about being right—it’s about being understood. This is particularly vital in shared decision making, public health messaging, and interdisciplinary teamwork.

Jenicek argues that fallacy-free reasoning isn’t only for abstract debate—it’s fundamental to making the right decision for an individual patient or a whole population. Understanding others' logic helps practitioners engage more respectfully and productively, especially when values and priorities differ.

A valuable resource for thoughtful practice

Fallacy-Free Reasoning in Medicine is a unique and valuable addition to the medical literature. At a time when healthcare professionals are encouraged to reflect, communicate, and practice with both evidence and empathy, Jenicek provides the missing link: a guide to logical, critical, and reasoned thought.

This book will appeal to a wide range of readers—clinicians looking to strengthen their communication of diagnostic reasoning, educators seeking to foster critical thinking in trainees, researchers committed to methodological rigor, and even policymakers tasked with interpreting evidence.

But it is perhaps most valuable as a reflective text. Jenicek doesn’t scold or lecture; he invites us to pause, consider, and revise how we reason. In doing so, he champions a kind of professional humility and intellectual honesty that medicine sorely needs.

Final thoughts

Milos Jenicek has succeeded in bringing the rigour of philosophy into the heart of medical practice—without ever losing sight of the practical realities of healthcare. Fallacy-Free Reasoning in Medicine is at once scholarly and approachable, serious and occasionally laugh-out-loud funny.

For anyone involved in health communication, decision making, or education, this book is a must-read. It will sharpen your thinking, improve your practice, and make you a better communicator—not just in medicine, but in life.

Author: Kara Gilbert, KMG Communications