PSYCHOSES

Abstract

case-histories would not appear to lend support to any dogmatic pronouncement that men of genius are characterized by solitary traits, although it does seem justifiable to conclude that in some (perhaps many) geniuses there is a decided propensity to solitude and seclusion. This, however, does not seem to involve an innate disposition; rather, it would appear that the tendency can be accounted for on the basis of conditioning. Solitude is not the goal of genius but its refuge. Aloofness is frequently the result of a shrinking from the deteriorating standards of society. The genius is not only constantly forced into solitary retreat, but he sometimes seeks seclusion voluntarily and deliberately because as he associates with mankind he senses the advantages to be gained from insulating himself from the masses. In some instances contempt for society among men of geinius may be the result of an attempt to compensate for a feeling of social inferiority. C. S. R.