Egas Moniz and pre-frontal leucotomy: beyond controversy

Abstract

Public debate and sharing of important issues which have implications for all of us, now and in the future, are an acquired civilizational heritage in that they represent a cultural order which is compatible with participation, citizenship and human rights. This article looks at the case of pre-frontal leucotomy, the objections it encountered when it first appeared, and the way they were assessed and handled at the time, suggesting an explanation which is of an ideological nature.