Mental Health in the Future: Politics, Science, Ethics and Values

Abstract

A look at mental health in the future reveals several dimensions: the pulpit or role of the predictor; the time frame, usually centering around the annual budget presentation to the Congress; the definition of mental health, a perennial and difficult subject; and methodology, the model used to look into the future. Until recently, in the mental health field, we have had to deal with the interplay of two forces: knowledge and politics. Now, we must also consider the ethics and values of our actions. As we look to the future, this interplay be tween power and politics, on the one hand, and science or sub stance on the other, has evolved from a bi-polar to a tri-polar view. We must build into the leadership, decision making and governance of our work the capability to deal with, not only the scientific and political issues, but the issues of ethics and values. This sensitivity is especially necessary now, as we contemplate such issues as: psychosurgery and the protection of individual rights in human experimentation; television and violence; marihuana and health; and the scientific aspects of crime and anti-social behavior. Our success in coping with these, and other issues, will depend on our ability to blend politics, science and systems with the demands of ethics and values. The future, as the present, depends on ethics and values to maintain the checks and balances between science and politics.