Herausforderung der Freiheit

Karl Jasper's (1883-1969) early work 'General Psychopathology' is still regarded as one of the classic methodological works on psychiatry today. A philosopher as well, he often expressed his polemic views of clinical psychiatry, psychotherapy and psychosomatics within the context of Kant's idea of freedom. The monograph consolidates the controversies and their current relevance. In addition, studies of the pathographies of Hölderlin, Nietzsche and van Gogh explain how Jaspers emphasized the importance of freedom, particularly during the creative process, for those with a mental illness. The sociological modernity of Jasper's cross-cultural thinking is reflected in the works at the end of the book which are directed at Max Weber, his teacher. This volume demonstrates that Jasper's philosophy has lost none of its relevance in the 21st century.