A psychopathic perspective on psychopaths?

A psychopathic perspective on psychopaths?

Jon Ronson, author of “the Psychopath Test” went to visit a mental institution to interview a patient, Tony, who was diagnosed a psychopath. Tony told him he had tried to escape from being convicted by acting like he was mad. After he got a taste of the alternative effect, he claimed he was perfectly sane and confessed his plan.

Jon continued his research and found out what kind of personality traits were related to this condition and started to analyze his surroundings, and even himself. Eventually, he comes to terms with his belief that most people have some of the traits that signify a psychopath.

I think it’s an occupational hazard that everyone who starts researching or working with the field of psychoanalysis might diagnose themselves, be it correct or incorrect. On the other hand, it is terribly interesting to find out how the mind works and how it affects everything and everyone around us.

The tests that were used to indicate and cure insanity are of an equally questionable nature as it’s subject’s behavior. Long term lsd trips and an alternative take on shock therapy seem a bit unstable or sought after. The last did work, but was banned for its nature was probably in conflict with a law.

Psychology never leaves me with statements, it leaves me with questions. What is sanity? Is it wrong to be insane, and should it be treated? And who or what can really decide who goes to a mental institution?

Radiohead – The King of Limbs: First review

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/feb/18/radiohead-king-limbs-first-review

Radiohead's latest album confirms they're heading for a specific sound also heard on the last album. In contradiction to the band's tendency to create solely unique and eclectic albums, they have now chosen a different approach to making music. Key elements are “abstract lyrics, jittery rhythms, echoes of leftfield electronica” 

The band did hold on to giving music critics a hard time to make their deadlines. They don’t give heads-ups for new album releases, and are known for changing release data. 

The album does seem a step forward from “In Rainbows”, though it is too soon to give a final opinion, Radiohead albums are regarded as growers.

Reaction:

I think this is a pretty good point that the writer made. You have too little time to review an album when you have deadlines to meet or quota to reach. It is not uncommon to fully appreciate a piece of music only after extensive listening. A replay value, one could argue, is a quite important aspect for a review, but modern critic culture won’t allow for such thorough testing.  

For me, this is the second Radiohead album I’ve ever listened to, and I can agree with the author that this album is more accessible than one of its predecessors, OK computer.

This is my first blog ever. I will try to make the next one more to the point, and make it have a authentically British subject.

Anthony out.