What did Szasz think about the concept of civil commitment?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an understanding of Thomas Szasz's views on civil commitment, specifically whether he saw it as an infringement of personal freedoms, limited to individuals with disabilities, enhancing dignity, or a necessary societal protection.
Answer
Thomas Szasz opposed civil commitment.
Thomas Szasz was a staunch opponent of civil commitment, viewing it as a form of involuntary psychiatric hospitalization and akin to slavery.
Answer for screen readers
Thomas Szasz was a staunch opponent of civil commitment, viewing it as a form of involuntary psychiatric hospitalization and akin to slavery.
More Information
Thomas Szasz believed that civil commitment was an infringement on individual rights and civil liberties. He equated involuntary mental hospitalization with practices like slavery, arguing against psychiatric labeling and the notion of mental illness as a justification for confining individuals.
Tips
People might misconstrue Szasz's position as opposing treatment or care, when he was specifically against the forced aspect of treatment that violated individual autonomy.
Sources
- Thomas Szasz - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Dr Thomas Szasz Quotes on Involuntary Commitment - cchr.org.au
- Szasz, Schizophrenia, and Civil Commitment - Psychology Today - psychologytoday.com
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