Thomas Szasz, 1920–2012

I learned of the unexpected passing of Dr Thomas Szasz, at age 92. I have known Tom Szasz since I was a resident, more than 30 years ago.

Although we found ourselves on opposite sides of most issues in psychiatry, I have always regarded Tom as a valuable teacher and a genial and warm human being.

His passing surely marks the end of an era in the history of psychiatry, and many will miss Tom's role as Socratic "gadfly."