Responding to the demand for recognition of Mad identity

This chapter, “Responding to the demand for recognition of Mad identity,” addresses the following question: Does the demand for recognition of Mad identity possess normative force and, if it does, how should society respond to it? It begins by outlining the normative force of demands for recognition in general, and proceeds by applying this to the specific case of Mad identity. It explores three features of identities that can deflate a demand for recognition of its normative force: the identity for which recognition is demanded is trivial, morally objectionable, or irrational. The chapter then outlines a framework for responding to the demand for recognition of Mad identity, a framework informed by a range of political responses and attempts at reconciliation. Finally, the chapter develops the idea that Mad narratives are a broadening of our cultural repertoire as it pertains to madness, and that they can constitute a cultural form of societal adjustment—a cultural adjustment.