On the grammar of "psychosis"

Abstract

This study in the philosophy of psychiatry deals with the concept 'psychosis'. Methodologically it follows Wittgenstein's proposal to 'dissolve' philosophical problems by studying the actual use of the relevant concepts. Philosophical problems concerning both identification of psychosis and the meaning of this concept are pointed out. The logical dependencies between 'psychosis' and 'understanding' and between 'understanding' and the concept of person are demonstrated. Studying the interdependence of these concepts in the light of the actual uses of 'madness' shows how the use of 'psychosis' implies a radical loss of understanding. The status and legitimacy of 'psychosis' as a psychiatric concept is then demonstrated.