What would you think of an engineer who expounded the art…
““What would you think of an engineer who expounded the art of flying without revealing the secrets of the engine and propeller? That's what you do, you engineer of the human soul. Just that. You're a coward. You want the raisins out of my cake but you don't want the thorns of my roses. Haven't you too, little psychiatrist, been cracking silly jokes about me? Haven't you ridiculed me as "the prophet of bigger and better orgasms"? Have you never heard the whimpering of a young wife whose body has been desecrated by an impotent husband? Or the anguished cry of an adolescent bursting with unfulfilled love? Does your security still mean more to you than your patient? How long will you go on valuing your respectability above your medical mission? How long will you refuse to see that your pussyfooting procrastination is costing millions their lives?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote condemns professionals who hide essential knowledge behind jargon, prioritizing reputation over genuine help, especially in matters of sexuality and emotional well‑being.
In simple terms: Criticizes hidden expertise and misplaced priorities.
Key Takeaway
Expose truth, prioritize patient care.
Themes
ethics
professionalism
sexuality
power dynamics
Mood
frustrated
angry
passionate
Type
critical
provocative
When to use this quote
- clinical practice
- therapy sessions
- sexual health education
- advocacy work
- policy reform
Key Concepts
psychoanalysis
humanism
medical ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can clinicians balance transparency with professional boundaries?
- What safeguards protect patients when expertise is disclosed?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may oversimplify complex therapeutic relationships and ignore necessary confidentiality.