PHIL-2710

Sanity, Madness, and Society

An examination of the models of a human being associated with various theories of madness (e.g., the psychoanalytic theory), and of the structure of interpersonal relationships in such settings as the family and mental institutions. The social and ethical implications of saying that someone is mentally ill, together with the claim that there is no such fact as mental illness, are also examined. Readings are drawn from the work of such authors as Laing, Szasz, Goffman, Sartre, Bateson, and Freud. (Cross listed as STSH-2710. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and STSH-2710.) Offered on availability of instructor.

4 credit hours