Conclusion

Abstract

Abstract In this final chapter, we tie up several loose ends of our argument. First, we consider the question: If the flaws in current diagnostic criteria are as compellingly clear as we argue that they are, then why haven’t they been changed, or why can’t they easily be changed? In addressing this question, we shift from the logic of diagnosis to the logic of powerful constituencies and vested interests that come into existence once a definition of disorder is in place. Second, we return to the evolutionary perspective on disorder that we presented in the first two chapters and that serves as the framework for much of our argument. The scholarly literature has posed many objections to this view. We review some of the most interesting objections and briefly explain why we think none of them places the evolutionary understanding of normal human functioning in doubt. Finally, this book is mainly an analysis and critique. However, many readers will be wondering what the solution to the problems we identify might be. So we offer some initial thoughts on strategies by which the approach to diagnosis of MDD might be changed to be more valid.