The author argues that the practice of psychiatry is impeded by a central paradox. On the one hand, psychiatry cannot develop unless the methods of science are used to unravel its problems. On the other, a significant part of what has been advanced as science is of little value and has done no more than divert attention from the important non-scientific aspects of psychiatric practice. Empathetic and perceptive practice is central for good psychiatry; there is no reason to believe that scientific method alone—good or bad—will lead to its achievement.
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