Ethics and the Profession of Psychiatry

Psychiatry is an ethical discipline in that mental health and wellbeing are values that are sought in medical treatments. Psychiatry as a profession is bound by principled codes of ethics derived from the Hippocratic Oath. Ethical theories may be either rule-based or principle-based. The American Psychiatric Association&s;s code is principle-based, but the section dealing with public figures is often called the “Goldwater Rule.” This chapter attempts to clarify the intent and implication of this confusion with regard to what a psychiatrist may or may not, should or should not say about a charismatic and potentially destructive political leader. Interlude: Pinocchio: Always Let your Conscience be Your Guide