Bevis E. McNeil – författare

This book examines the cogency and value of Nietzsche’s idea of eternal recurrence, as an antidote to the nihilism resulting from the catastrophic event of ‘the death of God’. Its significance to Nietzsche’s philosophy as a whole (when presented either as an imaginative thought experiment, a cosmological hypothesis, or a poetic metaphor) is analysed, alongside the manifold criticisms the idea has attracted.

In this original reading of eternal recurrence, McNeil explores the strength of metaphorical meaning contained within Heraclitean and Stoic cosmologies, revealing their influence on Nietzsche’s own cosmology, along with their holistic approach to life which Nietzsche endorsed.  Furthermore, an extensive critique of Heidegger’s interpretation of eternal recurrence is given. McNeil argues that Heidegger ignores not only the life-affirming Dionysian aspects of the concept, but also the Heraclitean sense of play evident in the cosmology, and the importance of thisfor developing a positive, celebratory attitude towards our lives and creative projects.   

This book addresses a variety of key issues surrounding mental health and the criminalization of certain individuals and groups by the Criminal Justice System and the impact this can have on their mental health. It challenges the assumption that people with mental health problems are in some way a risk or danger to society (and themselves) and therefore have a greater propensity for committing crimes, when in reality they are more likely to become the victims of crime. It argues that the misguided correlations drawn between mental health and crime, as perpetuated by the media, policy makers, clinicians, agents of the criminal justice system, and ultimately the public, lead to the criminalization of the vulnerable. Furthermore, the criminalization, stigmatization, stereotyping, labelling and discrimination endured by people with mental health problems has a devastating effect on their mental health and well-being and has negative consequences for society as a whole. Each chapter focuses on a specific area relating to mental health, identifying key themes and issues, as well as offering recommendations for improvements with regards to the treatment and support for people with mental health problems. In addition, the treatment of offenders with mental health problems who engage with the criminal justice system and its services, such as the police, prison and probation services, is critically evaluated.