By Dr. Hans Hermann Ehrat
Dr. Hans Hermann Ehrat introduces “methodical immoralism” through Eugen Drewermann’s image of psychotherapy and pastoral care as a form of asylum. People enter the temple and may be as they truly are. This image points to encounters that are not guided by usual moral patterns of judgment.
The article links this attitude with idiolectics, the practice of listening to a person’s own language. Encountering another person “without ifs and buts” expresses unconditional respect, reduces power and misuse of power, and acknowledges the inner wisdom of each human being.
For palliative care, Ehrat argues, idiolectical dialogue can help bring forth what is already present in a person: individuality, life force, and resources for living and possibly dying. Because the method appears simple, it requires training and trust in practice. The palliative academies in Würzburg and Bamberg have begun incorporating idiolectics into their programmes, with encouraging results.
