Able Quote by Brock Chisholm
“The re-interpretation and eventually (sic) eradication of the concept of right and wrong which has been the basis of child training, the substitution of intelligent and rational thinking for faith... are the belated objectives of practically all effective psychotherapy. The fact is, that most psychiatrists and psychologists and other respectable people have escaped from these moral chains and are able to observe and think freely.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on Psychotherapy, 1950s
Psychotherapy aims to replace moral judgments with rational, intelligent thinking, freeing patients from outdated right‑wrong constraints.
In simple terms: Therapy should focus on rational thought, not moral policing.
Key Takeaway
Embrace rational analysis over moral judgments.
Themes
psychotherapy
ethics
rationality
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- clinical practice
- patient counseling
- ethical training
- mental health policy
Key Concepts
Moral relativism
cognitive restructuring
professional autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can therapists balance rational insight with clients' cultural morals?
- What risks arise when moral guidance is removed?
A Different Perspective
Might overlook cultural values that shape moral frameworks.
