IDS 101: “It’s a mad, mad, mad, mad
world”: Explorations of Insanity
Notions of insanity have been prevalent throughout
history beginning with early views that insanity was due to demonic
possession. Different disciplines have
attempted to conceptualize insanity including the psychiatric and psychological
fields that have outlined what makes one “crazy” and the legal arena that has
articulated the criteria for what makes one legally insane. This colloquium
will explore questions related to various issues of insanity and mental illness
including: What is the subjective experience of insanity like? Does insanity really exist and, if so, what
are the criteria for defining insanity?
How has our view of insanity changed over time? Who decides who is and is not insane? How have diagnoses of insanity and mental
illness been used to oppress and marginalize groups of people throughout
history? Should insanity absolve one of
responsibility for crimes committed?
Students will read historical books, novels, autobiographies, case
studies, and articles that will allow for an engagement of these questions with
the goal of developing their skills in critical reading, analysis, writing, and
oral expression. Click on the link below
to see the most current course syllabus.