Secular humanism and 'scientific psychiatry'
2006
Secular Humanism and Scientific Psychiatry
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Thomas Szasz
Primary Institution: SUNY Upstate Medical University
Hypothesis
Is Secular Humanism compatible with so-called Scientific Psychiatry?
Conclusion
Secular Humanism is incompatible with the principles and practices of psychiatry.
Supporting Evidence
- Secular humanists reject authoritarian beliefs and emphasize individual freedom and responsibility.
- Psychiatric practices often rely on coercion rather than consent.
- Deinstitutionalization has not liberated mental patients but has led to new forms of confinement.
Takeaway
This paper argues that the beliefs of Secular Humanism clash with the practices of psychiatry, which often involve coercion rather than consent.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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