Chapter 3
To me, Rosenhan's experiment did not reveal problems with psychiatry itself, but rather problems with preconception; almost everything that (apparently) happened to him was based entirely on the assumption that he was, in fact, mentally ill. It does not surprise me that the patients recognized him as "normal". After all, "It takes one to know one," is a common expression for a reason. It's tragic that the alleged caretakers of the mentally ill at that time were completely indifferent, and I certainly hope care has drastically increased in quality since then.
"The Harvard Test of Inflected Acquisition", while a very interesting and worthwhile experiment, makes me sad for the poor children that weren't given solid opportunities to succeed.
I don't know if I'd have the courage to repeat Rosenhan's experiment, but kudos to Slater. Again, though, I'm not surprised about the results--as time has marched on, we've distanced ourselves from mental institutions. How sweet that she wanted to share her results with him.
Chapter 4
Darley and Latane's experiment is just as fascinating as Milgram's. Though it's not a study in obedience, it's an interesting view of human tendencies when others are in danger. Quite frankly, the results of this study and Milgram's study are seriously affecting my belief in the inherent good of humanity. It's no secret that we doubt ourselves, yet I wonder: at what point are we okay with making a fool of ourselves in case the situation isn't serious?
This entire chapter (and, I'm sure, a vast number of experiments like the one described) makes me consider exactly how intelligent we are as a species--we certainly act like pack animals, disregarding our own instincts for the behavior of the group. Odd and terrifying.
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