Andrew Collier has written an original critique of R. D. Laings thought that is also an extremely helpful introduction to his work. By focusing on Laings writings in relation to the three theoretical traditions from which his work stems Marxism, psychoanalysis, and existentialism he examines Laings achievement not only as a psychoanalyst but as a philosopher and political thinker. Collier disagrees with Laing on a number of points, criticizing in particular what he sees as his "importations" from existentialism. The book is, however, a carefully considered critique and one that, in contrast to much that has been written about Laing, pays full attention to all aspects of his thought.