Illness As Metaphor by Susan Sontag

The book is a critical examination of the ways in which society uses metaphors to depict and understand illness, particularly focusing on tuberculosis and cancer. The author argues that the metaphors and myths surrounding certain diseases can often be harmful, adding a layer of stigma and moral judgment to the patient's experience. By analyzing historical and cultural attitudes, the book challenges the victim-blaming narratives and encourages a more empathetic and fact-based approach to understanding illness, advocating for the separation of the patient's identity from their disease.

The 5855th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 72

Since this book was first published in 1978, there is a penalty of 6.4%. The age adjusted score is 67.39.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.