Mental health practice: can philosophy help?

Abstract:

Traditionally, philosophy has been regarded as operating at a level above practical application. However, the discipline can offer mental health policy and practice some valuable aid. First, its logical rigour can help to clarify concepts and expose inconsistency and prejudice; second, its wealth of theory about morality can enrich the concepts that guide mental health practice. By avoiding simplistic solutions (such as reliance on the ‘four principles’ of biomedical ethics) those who turn to the discipline of philosophy may learn how to be more critical of accepted policies and practices.

Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 2005; 39:1008–1010

Keywords: dangerousness; harm; mental health; philosophy; treatability

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1614.2005.01718.x