Madhouse

Discover the chilling story behind psychiatry's dark past in Madhouse by Andrew T. Scull, published by Yale University Press in 2007. This compelling narrative delves into the controversial practices of Henry Cotton, the superintendent of Trenton State Hospital in New Jersey, who believed he had found the root cause of psychosis. Driven by this conviction, Cotton initiated a ruthless campaign to eradicate what he deemed the 'perils of pus infection'.

With 384 pages of meticulously researched history, Madhouse highlights a cautionary tale of a time when psychiatric professionals failed to hold each other accountable. Scull's insightful exploration not only sheds light on the past but also serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities within the field of psychiatry. Perfect for anyone interested in the history of medicine and mental illness, this book is an essential read for students, professionals, and history enthusiasts alike.