The next issue of Orbis Idearum: European Journal of the History of Ideas will be entitled ‟Madness in the History of Ideas” (Vol. 11, Issue 2, 2023). We invite scholars to investigate not only the historical evolution of the concept of madness in the medical, psychiatric, and psychological literature, but also and especially the political, ideological, legal, social, religious, and philosophical dimensions of that evolution. Above all, it should be kept in mind that the influence between these two types of conceptualization – medical and political – is reciprocal and bidirectional. Certain political contexts have favored specific conceptualizations of ‟madness” in the medical field, just as certain developments in psychiatric science have reverberated on the political understanding of what is common sense and insanity, normality and deviance, proper and improper behavior.
We also invite scholars to submit contributions to the regular issues. The next issue may indeed have a hybrid form, with a section reserved to off topic contributions. We also welcome book reviews, literature reviews, and articles on the wider reception of publications that are of particular interest for the history of ideas. In any case, we invite potential authors to stick to the mission of the history of ideas. Before submitting a proposal, read carefully the Ethical Code, the Methodological Guide, the Editorial Norms, and download our publishing templates. When your contribution is ready, please contact the editor-in-chief. You will be given the instructions to register on the website and upload your work. We look forward to receiving your submissions!