This paper was presented before a group of physicians who were not psychiatrists and is therefore limited to a simple presentation of some of the basic conceptions of schizophrenia. Menninger stresses the prevalence of schizophrenia and the importance for physicians to differentiate between neurotic and psychotic illnesses. He points out the danger of provoking acute psychotic episodes, suicide and homicide if these cases are unrecognized. He also indicates that incipient cases of schizophrenia have a relatively good prognosis if they are sent early for treatment.