Admirable Evasions

Reviewers largely commend the book for its sharp, witty, and concise critique of modern psychology and its societal impact. Many found the writing to be exceptionally fine, well-argued, and highly engaging, describing the author as an iconoclast who fearlessly cuts through accepted norms. The book is praised for its profound challenge to generally accepted institutions and its ability to provoke deep self-reflection, making it an important and thought-provoking read. Readers appreciated the author's unique perspective as a retired psychiatrist with extensive experience in prison and hospital systems, which lends significant credibility and insight to his arguments. The work is seen as a powerful and satisfying takedown of various psychological theories, exposing what some perceive as their absurdities and overreaches.

Despite its strengths, the book receives criticism for being overly harsh and one-sided in its arguments against psychology. Some readers felt that the author created strawman arguments and generalizations, particularly in his critiques of certain therapeutic practices. Specific schools of psychology, such as cognitive psychology, were noted as being entirely glossed over, which reviewers argued weakened the overall force and balance of the book's argument. Additionally, some found the author's intellectual and formal writing style, characterized by sophisticated vocabulary and classical allusions, to be somewhat off-putting or pretentious. A few reviewers also pointed out that while the book effectively highlights how psychology can be used to undermine morality, it doesn't fully explore the deeper societal reasons why people seek such excuses, or acknowledge that such excuses existed long before modern psychology.

The overall verdict is that "Admirable Evasions" is a highly challenging and readable book that powerfully argues how modern psychology, by offering various explanations for human behavior, can inadvertently undermine personal responsibility and moral agency. While its polemical nature and occasional lack of nuance are noted, many reviewers found it to be an essential read for its ability to question prevailing orthodoxies. This book would particularly appeal to readers who enjoy incisive critiques of contemporary culture, those open to having their philosophical and moral beliefs challenged, and individuals interested in the intersection of psychology, ethics, and personal accountability. It is recommended for anyone who appreciates sharp, intellectual prose and a provocative perspective on human nature and societal trends.