Ethics of CIA and Military Contracting by Psychiatrists and Psychologists

Abstract

There have been extensive, systematic violations of human rights by American psychiatrists, psychologists, and neurosurgeons throughout the second half of the twentieth century. These violations have occurred at the leading medical schools with funding from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the U.S. military. Experiments have involved brain electrodes, LSD, hypnosis, the creation of Manchurian candidates, the development of biological, chemical, and nonlethal weapons, and the implantation of false memories and creation of amnesia. Many experiments were conducted on unwitting civilians and none involved documented consent, adequate outside review, or representation for the experimental subjects, or any meaningful follow-up. Because such still-classified mind control programs are undoubtedly ongoing, there should be disclosure requirements for psychologists and psychiatrists presenting or publishing in subject areas related to their CIA and military contracts, just as there are for civilians in relationships with drug companies.