R.D. Laing

1927–1989, United Kingdom

Scottish psychiatrist, central figure of anti-psychiatry. Described the schizoid experience as a survival strategy in an impossible family environment.

Books

  • The Divided Self (1960)

    Laing describes the schizoid and schizophrenic experience from within, showing it as a comprehensible response to an unbearable environment.

  • The Politics of Experience (1967)

    Laing questions the distinction between madness and normality, arguing that society itself may be insane and schizophrenia can be a healing journey.