"If the dead talk to you, you are a spiritualist; if God talks to you, you are a schizophrenic"

This quote by Thomas Szasz is a commentary on the way society views mental disorder. He is suggesting that if someone hears voices, they are either considered to be a spiritualist or a schizophrenic. If the voices are from the dead, then they are viewed as having a spiritual connection, but if the voices are from God, then they are viewed as having a mental disorder. Szasz is indicating that this is an unreasonable judgement, as both kinds of voices are equally valid. He is likewise suggesting that mental disorder should not be seen as an unfavorable thing, however rather as a part of life that need to be accepted and appreciated. By making this contrast, Szasz is highlighting the preconception that still exists around mental disorder and the need for society to be more unbiased and understanding.