Navigating Rabbi Nachman’s Teachings: Can I Pick and Choose?

I recently began studying Likkutei Etzot by Rabbi Nachman. I enjoy and agree with many of his ideas, particularly his thoughts on joy and happiness. However, he also expresses some views that I find questionable. For example, he states, “Anyone who wants to take care of himself should keep well away from physicians and doctors. They are notorious for the damage they cause” (Rabbi Nachman’s Wisdom 50). Additionally, in his chapter on secular wisdom, he writes, “When the Jewish people adopt the ideas and outlook of the other nations, God forbid, the Tzaddik falls from his level, and his perceptions become covered over and obscured” (49). I don’t necessarily agree with these two statements, although I resonate with many of his other ideas.

Is it morally acceptable for me to pick and choose which ideas of Rabbi Nachman to incorporate into my outlook on Judaism and my personal hashkafah while disregarding those I disagree with? Or is it an all-or-nothing approach when choosing who we choose to learn from.

Furthermore, I’m open to having a separate discussion about Rabbi Nachman. How can he make these two statements when the Rambam was both a physician and quoted Aristotle in his works? Did Rabbi Nachman disregard the teachings of the Rambam?