The death penalty and Bernard Diamond's approach to forensic psychiatry.
Bernard Diamond would testify only for the defense in criminal cases, but only if the whole psychiatric truth would be introduced during a trial and the facts of the case supported the defense position. Otherwise, he would refuse to participate. Although few other forensic psychiatrists have personal or professional ethical concerns regarding ever participating for the prosecution, many more have such problems in capital cases. Bernard Diamond's approach to forensic psychiatry should be considered at least as an option by those opposed to the death penalty. Bias in capital cases is not a persuasive reason to withdraw from involvement if the forensic psychiatrist remains honest.
Weinstock
R
R
West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center, CA 90073.
Leong
G B
GB
Silva
J A
JA
D002203:Capital Punishment / Q000266:history*; D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry / Q000266:history*; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D014481:United States