Psychosis and power

by James M. Glass

Glass's analysis bridges contemporary psychoanalytic and political theory and centers on case studies as well as small-group interactions at the hospital. Focusing on psychotic patients' own perceptions, he describes the loss of their ability to participate in consensual reality and to sustain the respect for rights and tolerance of differences which make reciprocal relationships possible. Their experience, Glass maintains, vividly illuminates larger political issues and points, in particular, to the psychotic bases of political tyranny. Pursuing omnipotence, closing off dialogue, creating scapegoats, and promoting violence - the tyrant elevates to matters of public policy those patterns of behavior that in an individual would be considered psychotic. Glass finds not only scenarios of domination in the hospital, but also stories of individuals who are able to reestablish the social contract. As essential to the health of the nation as to the health of each citizen, he suggests, is the