Revisiting the Insanity Defense: A Comparative Analysis of the M'Naghten Rules and Modern Psychiatric Standards in Criminal Law

Author(s)	Mr. Arpit Kushwaha
Country	India
Abstract	Insanity defense remains one of the most complex and controversial doctrines in criminal jurisprudence, situated at the intersection of law, morality, and psychiatry. Originating from the landmark 1843 case that led to the formulation of the M'Naghten Rules, the legal standard for insanity has historically focused on the cognitive incapacity of the accused. However, advancements in psychiatric science have significantly broadened the understanding of mental illness, incorporating both cognitive and volitional impairments. This research paper critically examines the continued reliance on the M'Naghten framework in modern criminal justice systems and evaluates its compatibility with contemporary psychiatric standards. Through doctrinal and comparative analysis, the paper highlights the limitations of the traditional legal test, particularly its narrow cognitive focus and its inability to accommodate nuanced psychological conditions. It further explores alternative approaches such as the Model Penal Code test and modern forensic psychiatric evaluations. The study concludes that while the M'Naghten Rules provide doctrinal clarity, they are increasingly inadequate in addressing the complexities of mental health in criminal law, thereby necessitating reform toward a more integrated medico-legal approach.
Field	Sociology > Administration / Law / Management
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On	2026-05-07

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