The Mask of Sanity
The Mask of Sanity
Book Brief
Beta596
Book • Nonfiction
•
Mystery & Crime Fiction•
PhilosophyUnited States • 1940s
•
Health•
Mental Illness2003
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Mask of Sanity by Hervey M. Cleckley explores psychopathy, focusing on individuals who outwardly appear normal but possess emotional and behavioral deficits. Cleckley examines case studies, highlighting the complex nature of psychopathy, including issues with empathy, conscience, and interpersonal relationships, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding this personality disorder.
Informative
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
1,303 ratings
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Review Roundup
Hervey M. Cleckley's The Mask of Sanity is pivotal in understanding psychopathy, praised for its compelling case studies and insightful analysis. Critics note its dense, clinical language can be challenging. Yet, its impact on psychiatry remains profound, shaping the study of antisocial behavior. Despite dated examples, its core concepts endure as essential reading.
Who Should Read The Mask of Sanity?
A reader intrigued by psychology, particularly psychopathy, will enjoy The Mask of Sanity by Hervey M. Cleckley. Fans of Robert Hare's Without Conscience and Jon Ronson's The Psychopath Test will find Cleckley's exploration of the complex behaviors of psychopaths both foundational and compelling.
1,303 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Mask of Sanity is considered a seminal work in the field of psychopathology and significantly influenced the understanding and definition of psychopathy in both clinical and legal settings.
First published in 1941, the book introduced the concept of the "successful psychopath," describing individuals who can hide their psychopathic tendencies behind a facade of normalcy.
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Hervey Cleckley's work laid the groundwork for future research and the development of diagnostic tools, such as the Hare Psychopathy Checklist, used in contemporary psychological assessments.
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596
Book • Nonfiction
•
Mystery & Crime Fiction•
PhilosophyUnited States • 1940s
•
Health•
Mental Illness2003
Adult
18+ years
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