The Age of Insanity: Modernity and Mental Health

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Publisher:  Praeger Publishers
Number Of Pages:  240
Publication Date:  2001-09
Sales Rank:  1694591
ISBN / ASIN:  0275970523
EAN:  9780275970529
Binding:  Hardcover
Manufacturer:  Praeger Publishers
Studio:  Praeger Publishers
Average Rating:  5

The often misunderstood \"modern person syndrome\" is a disorder linked to the conditions of living in our contemporary society. The author argues that the conditions of modernity have introduced new processes, forces, and cultural motivations that have major implications for all aspects of mental health and social well being. While modernity offers unprecedented opportunities for personal enhancement and creative expression, there is mounting evidence of a mental health crisis that demands the immediate attention of mental health professionals. In order to address the new challenges that have arisen under conditions of modernity, mental health professionals must rethink fundamental assumptions about the relationship between society and mental health, as well as the impact of modern social concerns upon individual behavior and psychological well being. This innovative approach to mental health seeks to explain a variety of psychological trends, including the steep rise in depression, the sharp increase in the prevalence of existential disorders, and the emergence of consumption disorders. By shedding light on the interaction between modernity and mental health, Schumaker illuminates the emerging patterns of mental disturbance while also offering new and more effective intervention and prevention strategies.



Review:

Excellent analysis of cultural effects

Schumaker writes terse, short, fact-filled sentences which require sometimes two readings. I was amazed how well-read the author is. He moves from psychology to economics to political philosophy to sociology. In my opinion the mental problems are mainly cultural and reading this book reinforces my view. There is a lot of perceptive critique of globalization, Western myths and American life. Perhaps he is sometimes a bit pessimistic, but there are data which supports this view. The more we can control material things the more alienated we are going to be. One of the best books I have read lately.




Review:

A Great Synthesis

I call attention to John F. Schumaker's work at every available opportunity. Amazon has a standing order to notify me any time he releases a new work. In my view, he is one of the world's most gifted explainers of the human condition. In the preface to \"The Age of Insanity,\" Schumaker expresses a love affair with the \"big picture.\" This affection comes through on every page. That this book was published in September 2001, amounts to a prophetic explanation point at the ending of one era and the beginning of another. If you have concerns over the state of mental health in the world today, then I highly recommend \"The Age of Insanity.\"

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