Watch Psychiatry: An Industry Of Death

Psychiatry: An Industry of Death is a 2006 documentary film that delves into the history of psychiatry and its relationship with modern medicine. The film was directed by Brian R. Audler and produced by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), a nonprofit organization founded by the Church of Scientology. The movie features interviews with psychiatrists, psychologists, historians and former patients, who discuss the origins of psychiatry and its evolution over the past two centuries. The film argues that psychiatry, instead of being a legitimate branch of medicine, is a pseudoscience that has been used to control and exploit people for profit.

The film first calls into question the legitimacy of psychiatric diagnoses by pointing out that there are no objective medical tests for mental illnesses. Instead, psychiatrists rely on subjective assessments that are often influenced by social and cultural factors. The film also argues that psychiatric treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and psychotropic drugs, have harmful side effects and can cause permanent damage to the brain.

One of the main themes of the film is the idea that psychiatry has been used as a means of social control. The film argues that psychiatrists have been involved in many controversial practices over the years, including lobotomies, forced institutionalization, and human experimentation. The movie goes on to suggest that psychiatry has been used as a tool by governments and other powerful interests to maintain social order and suppress dissent.

Throughout the film, various experts are interviewed who support these claims. Walter Afield, a psychiatrist and critic of the mental health system, explains how the pharmaceutical industry has contributed to the widespread use of psychotropic drugs. George W. Albee, a psychologist and social critic, discusses the history of eugenics and how it influenced the development of psychiatry. Garland Allen, a historian of medicine, speaks about the ways in which psychiatry has been used to perpetuate social inequalities.

The film also features interviews with former patients who recount their experiences in psychiatric institutions. These individuals describe a range of abuses, including involuntary confinement, electroshock therapy and forced medication. They also talk about the lasting effects of these treatments on their lives and their families.

Overall, Psychiatry: An Industry of Death is a provocative and controversial film that challenges many widely accepted beliefs about psychiatry and mental health treatment. It will likely be of interest to anyone who has concerns about the role of psychiatry in society, as well as those who are interested in the history and philosophy of medicine. While some viewers may find the film overly critical and biased, it does raise important questions about the role of mental health professionals in contemporary society.