Humanizing Madness

Humanizing Madness
Niall McLaren
Future Psychiatry Press
ISBN: 1932690395
Non-Fiction, Philosophy, Psychology
Reviewed by Ernest Dempsey

Calling for the need of a sound theory of mind, Dr. Niall McLaren presents a strong and sharp criticism of the reductionist framework of psychiatric practices that exist today. In Humanizing Madness, he raises serious doubts over the legitimacy of mainstream psychiatry that stands on weak scientific grounds and loosely defined concepts relating mind and mental disorders. As he attempts to prove with his logical analysis of mental theories, we still are very much in need of a plausible theory of mind.
Not only does Niall McLaren point out the various shortcomings of the established views of psychology/psychiatry, and of some other scientific disciplines, but he also proposes the most cogent model of mind that does not violate fundamental scientific laws and is also compatible with the norms of common sense and logic.
Humanizing Madness is undoubtedly a groundbreaking work of scholarly caliber. Dr. McLaren’s knowledge of psychiatry and philosophy, his insight in the epistemological value of scientific and philosophical concepts, and his command of creating illustrative analogies do not anywhere fall short of being impressive. Most remarkable is his attention to detail.
There is a lot to digest in Humanizing Madness-chunks of intellectual goodies; and despite all the lucidity of the book’s language, it will be recommended only for the egg-headed, and those having a penchant for a philosophical discussion of science.