PSY 270 Week 6 CheckPoint Mind Over Matter

PSY 270 Week 6 CheckPoint Mind Over Matter

Resource: A Matter Over Mind article

 

Review the Electronic Reserve Readings for Week Five, located on the student website. In your reading, A Matter Over Mind, the author presents the case of a young man who shoots and kills a police officer. The case argues a defendant’s constitutional right to use the insanity defense and the amount of leeway provided to prosecutors.

 

·         What is the difference between mental illness and insanity? (Hint: What is the important second prong of the McNaughten rule?)

·         The McNaughten rule cannot be used to defend the actions of a person who drinks alcohol and then murders someone. Why not?

·         Identify each of the following:

o    Rational and guilty

o    Guilty but insane

o    Not guilty by reason of insanity

If you were deciding this case, how would you rule? Briefly explain your decision.