This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1817 edition. Excerpt: . REMARKS ON INSANITY. CHAP.

I. The Disease, which we have to consider, identified--Opinion of modern Writers relative to its Mental Pathology pointed out. IN viewing the subject of insanity, we are very soon reminded of the uncertain ground on which we are treading, by the necessity, constantly forcing itself upon us, to substitute description for strict definition. The better to identify the complaint which will be considered in the ensuing pages, I must premise, that it is my intention to comprehend those forms of madness, which are viewed under the heads "Manie Melancholic" by Drs. Pinel, Esquirol, andDubuisson. If I should appear at variance with these gentlemen in describing the disease, I am desirous of accounting for such a difference, without coming to an issue with them on matters of fact. Difference of treatment must occasion a corresponding variety in the symptoms of disease. Besides, although I am viewing the same object, my attention is not necessarily attracted by the same features of it as have attracted them.

I recognise the utmost exactness in the views which they have given, though they throw a strong light on points which we consider comparatively insignificant, and leave in darkness many that we deem important. My reason for resorting to France for a history of insanity is, that I am bound to seek for information wherever B - Again, while I employ the terms which they have used, I do not accept the division grounded on these terms. I find the phenomena of Mania and Melancholy run too much into each other, to permit their being represented as maladies distinct in kind. At the same time, I am aware that logical accuracy in the division of disease is unattainable at the present period of our science. Perhaps.