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Cures Quote by R. D. Laing

“Doctors have throughout time made fortunes on killing their patients with their cures. The difference in psychiatry is that it is the death of the soul.” quote by R. D. Laing
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“Doctors have throughout time made fortunes on killing their patients with their cures. The difference in psychiatry is that it is the death of the soul.”

R. D. Laing

About This Quote

Source Book: The Divided Self by R. D. Laing, 1960

Psychiatry may treat symptoms but can also erode the soul, turning healing into harm.

In simple terms: Therapy can harm the spirit.

Key Takeaway

Question the soul of treatment.

Themes

mental health ethics psychology

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • clinical practice
  • therapy sessions
  • mental health policy

Key Concepts

patient autonomy medical paternalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards protect patients' inner well‑being?
  • When does treatment become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Some treatments genuinely help; not all are soul‑destructive.

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