Some Aspects of the History of Swiss Psychiatry
MANFRED BLEULER DR. MED.1
1 Professor of Psychiatry, University of Zurich
After reviewing some of the major accomplishments of individual Swiss psychiatrists, the author presents his view that great contributions to the progress of science, and particularly psychiatry, are closely related to the historical and cultural milieu in which the scientist works. As a result of the special circumstances prevailing at various times in their history the Swiss were able to make important contributions to the advancement of psychiatry; among them were an emphasis on the psychiatrist's developing a close relationship with his patients, their relatives, and their social group.
