PHL 111 Lecture Notes - Lecture 23: Mania, Psychopharmacology, Dysphoria

• School: Tunxis Community College
• Department: Philosophy
• Course: PHL 111
• Professor: Minor

Document Summary

Setting aside these metaphysical quandaries, we can at least plausibly believe that physico-chemical-cerebral states play a significant role in behavior and cognition. Psychopharmacological interventions (e. g. ssri"s) are potent and pervasive mind altering substances. It is, as of yet, unknown what the long-term effects such substances will have a) with protracted use, or b) after use has been discontinued. Even if the full gamut of effects proves impossible to foresee, is it morally permissible to alter personal identity via psychopharmacological substances at all? (i. e. do such substances undermine dignity?) When dealing with neurological and psychological disorders, a central concern is whether or not the patient is capable of informed consent. Consider pyschological disorders like that of dysphoria, depression, mania, delusion, dissociation, etc. Another issue is whether or not the patient will truly benefit from a psychopharmaceutical intervention. Lose the ability to work toward improvement. Alienated from ourselves and emotional significance of events. Would still work with the enhanced gifts we have.