TCM etiology and pathogenesis identifies syndromes and seek disease causes from pathogenic factors and their connections with the body under the guidance of Xiang Thinking. It is based on external manifestations of diseases

understands the inherent nature and variation of diseases and focuses on Xiang（imagery）

the unity of subject and object

relationship and dynamic. Culture profoundly affects the nature and outcome of diseases through the communication and feedback with environment and culture-gene interaction. TCM etiology and pathogenesis can be better grasped and the clinical efficacy can be further improved only by fully understanding the important position and role of culture.