Seclusion as a concept is poorly understood and this is reflected in the literature on the topic, particularly from nursing authors. This has led to an emotionally charged altercation rather than academic debate, both within the literature and at conferences. But why bother learning about seclusion at all, particularly as it is used less and less within mental health? We would point out to those sceptical about the value of this book that seclusion is not only of interest as an intervention per se, but is valuable in reflecting a shifting ethos within care. For some reason, seclusion has been...