In early theories of chiropractic, which elements were considered both abstract and concrete?

The choice of subluxation, innate intelligence, and nerve flow reflects a foundational aspect of chiropractic philosophy that intertwines both abstract concepts and concrete elements.

Subluxation, which refers to misalignments of the vertebrae that can interfere with nerve function, represents a tangible, physical condition that practitioners can observe and address through adjustments. This concept is concrete in its implications for physical health and well-being.

On the other hand, innate intelligence is an abstract notion that underlines the belief that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself and maintain health. It represents a philosophical viewpoint about the body's organizing intelligence and its role in health maintenance.

Nerve flow connects these two themes, as it involves the transmission of signals from the brain to the body and vice versa, which is both a specific, measurable aspect of bodily function and tied to the more theoretical discussions about innate intelligence.

The combination of these concepts encapsulates a core principle of chiropractic: the relationship between physical health (subluxation and nerve flow) and the philosophical underpinnings of health and healing (innate intelligence). Thus, this option effectively illustrates the blend of abstract reasoning and concrete practice that characterizes early chiropractic thought.