Psychosis - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Psychosis, a term shrouded in misunderstanding, signifies a departure from shared reality, a state where perceptions, thoughts, and emotions become profoundly disorganized, often accompanied by hallucinations or delusions that defy conventional understanding. It is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom, an expression of underlying conditions that challenge our grasp of what it means to perceive and interpret the world.
The conceptual roots of psychosis, while not explicitly labeled as such, can be traced back to antiquity. Figures like Hippocrates, in the 4th century BCE, documented mental disturbances that bear resemblance to psychotic states. Plato's "Allegory of the Cave" serves as an early philosophical depiction of individuals detached from reality, mistaking shadows for genuine forms, while Aristotle developed logic as a way to prevent the descent into madness. These early explorations of the human psyche occurred against the backdrop of ancient Greek philosophy and burgeoning medical thought, a time when the gods and reason were locked in a perpetual struggle for dominance.
Over the centuries, the understanding of psychosis evolved, shaped by cultural beliefs, scientific advancements, and shifting societal attitudes toward mental illness. The Enlightenment brought a focus on reason, exemplified by Kant's categorical imperative, and observation, yet, the treatment of those experiencing psychosis remained rudimentary. In the 19th century, figures like Emil Kraepelin and Eugen Bleuler sought to classify and categorize mental disorders, laying the groundwork for modern psychiatric diagnosis. The impact of existential thinkers like Kierkegaard, and their concept of the existential crisis, began in the 20th century to be applied to the study, treatment and experience of psychosis to the point where many believe a proper understanding of subjective morality can only be gained through an understanding of psychosis. The 20th century also saw the rise of Freudian psychoanalysis and other psychological models, which offered new perspectives on the origins and treatment of psychosis, but it was not until the advent of antipsychotic medications in the mid-20th century that significant strides were made in managing the symptoms of psychosis.
Today, psychosis remains a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, with ongoing research exploring its biological, psychological, and social underpinnings. Though it is rooted in biological and psychological elements, we see contemporary applications emerge when we consider whether a future AI should ever be allowed to experience free will and the impact this may have on moral agency. Its enduring mystique lies in its challenge to our assumptions about reality, sanity, and the nature of the self. What does it mean to truly know reality, and what responsibilities do we bear when another’s reality diverges from our own? These are questions that invite ongoing exploration and reflection, ensuring that psychosis will continue to intrigue and challenge us for generations to come.