Philosophy of Mental Illness

Catalog description

This course will explore philosophical questions at the heart of the fields of psychiatry, clinical psychology, and other mental health professions. Broadly, we will identify and critically evaluate assumptions that underlie labeling and treating certain individuals as "insane"/"mentally ill"/"mentally disordered." We will use conceptual tools within the philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, philosophy of medicine, and moral philosophy to consider questions such as: What is insanity? Is it a disease or illness, "just like diabetes"? What is a disease in the first place? How do we define a "good" or "healthy" human life? What are the ethical implications of labeling people as mentally disordered? Might so-called mental disorders be better described as forms of "neurodiversity," to be celebrated instead of cured?