Synopses & Reviews
Over 5 million Americans have taken the antidepressant Prozac. Many have become more confident, popular, mentally nimble, and emotionally resilient. The author looks at evidence from a variety of disciplines cellular biology, animal ethology, medical ethics, literature, & at his own patients stories to explore the implication of drugs that reshape temperament. A major contribution to late 20th century psychiatry & an extraordinarily eloquent, provocative, & moving tale about ourselves. A fascinating & beautifully written overview of the biology & psychology of mood-state. A richly philosophical meditation upon the basic nature of human nature.
Review
"Both Kramer's unequivocal endorsement of Prozac for the treatment of depression and the questions he raises about the use of drugs for mood alteration are controversial. A glossary would have been a useful addition for lay readers." Library Journal
Review
"A wise and unflinching examination of the ramifications for society and for the individual when the capsule replaces the couch." Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Peter D. Kramer, M.D., is a psychiatrist and faculty member of Brown Medical School specializing in the area of depression. He considers depression to be a serious illness with tangible physiological effects such as disorganizing the brain and disrupting the functioning of the cardiovascular system.