Evolutionary Psychiatry Before, During and After Kraepelin and His Times
Abstract
Abstract This chapter considers the influence of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection on psychiatry and psychology before Kraepelin and on Kraepelin as well as their more modern incarnation after Kraepelin. In particular, the use, misuse and misinterpretation of Darwin’s theories are put into perspective. The importance of Neo-Darwinian theorising in contemporary evolutionary psychiatry is examined in some depth. We conclude by underlining the importance of evolutionary theory for the future of post-Kraepelinian psychiatry.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Historical Psychiatry and Medical Practices
Academic and Historical Perspectives in Psychology
Philosophy of Biology and Scientific Explanation
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Springer eBooks
- Pages
- 53–71
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter