Psychiatry's Darkest Chapter, The Lobotomy

In this gripping episode, Hannah tells you the shocking history of lobotomies—one of the most infamous and controversial medical procedures of the 20th century. From its origins in the 1930s to its widespread use as a "miracle cure" for mental illness, we uncover the rise and fall of this devastating neurosurgical practice. Learn about Dr. António Egas Moniz, the Nobel Prize-winning psychiatrist behind the procedure, and how lobotomies were popularized in the U.S. by Dr. Walter Freeman. We’ll discuss the science (or lack thereof) behind the surgery, the tragic stories of patients, and how public outcry and medical advancements eventually led to its decline.

Join us as we unravel the disturbing past of lobotomies, examining how misguided medical innovations can have lasting consequences. If you’re fascinated by the history of medicine, psychology, and the ethics of treatment, this episode is a must-listen.

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Resources:

António Egas Moniz https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4291941/

Walter Jackson Freeman II https://www.britannica.com/biography/Walter-Jackson-Freeman-II

Rosemarie Kennedy https://www.jfklibrary.org/learn/about-jfk/the-kennedy-family/rosemary-kennedy

“The Lobotomist” Documentary: produced and directed by Barak Goodman and John Maggio ; written by Barak Goodman ; an Ark Media film. (2008). The lobotomist. Boston, MA : Alexandria, VA :WGBH Educational Foundation ; PBS Home Video,

My Lobotomy: A Memoir. Written by Howard Dully & Charles Fleming.

Today’s versions of lobotomy https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-a-lobotomy#psychosurgery-uses