John Haslam

John Haslam
John Haslam (1764–1844) was an English apothecary and physician known for his early work in the field of psychiatry. He is best remembered for his book "Observations on Madness and Melancholy" (1809), where he documented case studies of mental illness, notably the case of James Tilly Matthews, a patient with paranoid schizophrenia. Haslam's work, "Illustrations of Madness" (1810), provided one of the earliest detailed descriptions of this condition. His writings contributed to the growing understanding of mental disorders during the 19th century.

Author's Books:


The indulgence of the public has been already extended to several works which I have submitted to its decision on the subject of Insanity; and the same favourable interpretation is now solicited for the present performance,—which attempts the more difficult investigation of Sound Mind. In treating of Mental Derangement, I became very early sensible, that a competent knowledge of the faculties and... more...

In our survey of the Creation endowed with life and intellect, we are impelled to the conclusion, that the human mind is, beyond all comparison, the most perfect specimen that the Divine Author has chosen to allot to his creatures. The history of our species unfolds the splendid catalogue of man's achievements: many monuments, reared by his patriotism and piety, and elaborated by his tasteful... more...

My Lord, The present address originates in an anxious wish for the advancement of medical knowledge, where it is connected with those maladies of the human mind, that are referable to the court, wherein your Lordship has so long administered impartial justice. The disorders which affect the body are, in general, the exclusive province of the medical practitioner; but, by a wise provision, that has... more...