The Goldwater Rule: Ethics in Psychiatry

This chapter investigates the Goldwater Rule's significance and its impact on psychiatrists' ability to comment on the mental fitness of political figures. It discusses the historical context surrounding the rule, its evolution since the 1960s, and the ethical dilemmas faced by psychiatrists in the public eye. By examining cases such as Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential candidacy, the chapter underscores the complex relationship between psychiatry and politics, highlighting the risks of unsubstantiated claims by professionals.