Thomas Szasz was a prominent psychiatrist and psychoanalyst known for his critical views on psychiatry and the mental health system. He gained widespread recognition for challenging the medical model of mental illness, arguing that mental disorders should not be treated like physical illnesses. Szasz believed that many psychiatric diagnoses were subjective and relied on societal norms rather than scientific evidence, leading him to advocate for the concept of mental illness as a myth. Szasz's works, including "The Myth of Mental Illness," emphasized personal responsibility and the importance of free will. He argued that labeling individuals with mental disorders often serves to control them rather than help them. He encouraged a more humane approach to understanding behavior, suggesting that society should focus on the individual's circumstances and choices rather than pathologizing them. Throughout his career, Szasz was an advocate for civil liberties, especially in the realm of mental health treatment. He opposed involuntary hospitalization and psychiatric interventions without consent, asserting that such practices infringed on personal freedoms. Through his writings and lectures, he aimed to empower individuals and provoke critical discussions about the nature of mental health and the role of psychiatry in society. Thomas Szasz was a renowned psychiatrist who critically examined the conventional understanding of mental illness. He argued that mental disorders are often misrepresented as diseases and called for a reevaluation of how society views and treats psychological issues. His major work, "The Myth of Mental Illness," posits that many psychiatric diagnoses are arbitrary and serve more to exert control than to offer genuine help. He believed that understanding individual choices and behaviors was more beneficial than labeling someone as mentally ill. Szasz was a strong proponent of personal liberties, opposing involuntary treatment and hospitalization, emphasizing the importance of consent in mental health care. His legacy continues to inspire discussions about the ethics and practices of psychiatry today.