PHIL 450F Special Topics: Philosophy of Psychiatry

We will discuss the interrelated metaphysical, epistemological, ethical, and social issues that arise in trying to understand and treat mental illness. The metaphysical issues include the unity of the self and freedom of the will. Epistemological issues include the diagnosis of mental disorder and knowing when people are competent to understand the moral and legal consequences of their actions. Ethical issues include the rights of people with mental disorders to get treatment or to refuse it. Finally, social issues include the medicalization of deviant behavior and the effects of the mental health profession on society. Throughtout the course, we will compare popular thought about mental illness with what the experts say, as a way of gaining a critical perspective on both.