[Dissonance in addictology - The missed encounter between Laszlo Levendel and Thomas Szasz].

: The starting point for this paper is a consideration of Jozsef Gerevich's seminal study of binarisms and dissonance in the field of drug treatment policies. Gerevich suggests the possibility of a synthesis of conflicting and divergent approaches. The present study focuses on some historical aspects of this polarisation or dichotomy, as it was exemplified in the contrasting life-works of two scholars of addictionology: Laszlo Levendel and Thomas Szasz. Levendel was one of the most important founding fathers of Hungarian drug treatment system, whilst the Hungarian descended Szasz is perhaps the most famous critic and opponent of addictionology. Born at the same time and growing up in the same city, they shared a generational experience of exclusion. Both initially focused on other medical specialties before developing their careers in the field of addiction. Their approach and methods were contradictory and became polarised. On the one hand Levendel practised an eclectic and inclusive "bricolage" approach to alcohol treatment policy, whilst on the other Szasz was committed to a critical and polemical perspective of "destructive creation". After the democratic transformation of Hungary, the two were about to meet, but Levendel's sudden death prevented this from happening. The lesson we should perhaps take from this fact is that "opportunity is fleeting" and should be taken whenever it occurs.