“It’s the end of the word as we know it”

The post-normal condition in psychopathology

Abstract

The article explores the notion of normality and its implications in psychopathology, highlighting the complexity and the historical and cultural variability of the concept. Starting from a critique of traditional psychopathology, the author analyzes how the idea of normality has been shaped by epistemological, social, and political factors, emphasizing the role of culture in defining what is considered "normal." The historical roots of normality are examined, from Greek and Roman thought to modern psychological theories, showing how definitions have evolved over time, often reflecting dominant ideologies. The article discusses the contributions of key figures such as Basaglia, Szasz, and Hacking in deconstructing descriptive psychopathology and exposing the limitations of the positivist model. Finally, the concept of “post-normality” is introduced, offering a new perspective to interpret psychological and pathological dynamics in the contemporary context, characterized by complexity, fluidity, and global crises. This approach challenges rigid categorizations of normal and pathological, encouraging a more dynamic and adaptive reflection on the needs of modern psychopathology.