Is there power in Mad knowledge?

Abstract

This paper addresses some conceptual and organizational questions which bear on the issue of whether those designated mad can produce knowledge from, about, and beyond their experience. Ideas encapsulated in concepts such as lack of reason and epistemic justice are deployed as well as the individuation that characterizes both the clinical encounter and services generally. It is argued that these prevent such knowledge making in itself and dissipate the structures which would enable it. The paper looks at ways in which the silencing of the mad has been broken and at responses which suppress or recuperate such developments. It argues, nonetheless, that counter-narratives are being established that resist these responses. Several empirical studies provide evidence to support the argument.