A reader writes:
I find it interesting that you and Hitchens talk about Mel Gibson in psychodynamic terms – as though either of you are qualified to evaluate his rantings from a clinical perspective. In his more lucid moments, Gibson has admitted to being diagnosed with Bipolar disorder.
This doesn't excuse his behavior, but it certainly explains it a lot better than most commentary on the subject so far. His behavior – certainly his rage – is actually rather common in the manic phase of unmedicated (or self-medicated) bipolar disorder. How he medicates himself for this illness is something he hasn't really discussed, but it's clear that he is mentally ill – not just an oddball or a fascist (obviously, these are not mutually-exclusive categories – I'm just saying there is far more to the Gibson outbursts than you or others seem willing to speak about).
I lived with someone with Bipolar disorder for twenty years. I do not believe that the fascistic pornography and attack on the Gospels in "The Passion" has anything to do with bipolar disorder, nor do I believe it is relevant or exculpatory when someone has admitted to physically attacking a woman. He needs police intervention to protect the lives of others around him.
The Dish 