Freud and the politics of psychoanalysis

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Freud and the Politics of Psychoanalysis offers a sympathetic critique of Freud's work, highlighting its political dimensions from his early writings on hysteria to his later essays on civilization and religion. Brunner argues that politics is a fundamental aspect of Freud's discourse, as he perceived both the psyche and society as systems of power and domination. By examining Freud's work through a political lens, Brunner reveals a cohesive theory of the mind, therapy, family, and society. The first part addresses the medical and political context of Freud's ideas, noting his belief in universal mental principles across races and nations. The second part delves into the logic and language of Freud's theories, emphasizing the dynamics of dominance ingrained in the psyche. The third part discusses power dynamics in clinical settings, where Freud combined authoritarian and liberal elements, creating a space for verbal politics. Brunner also considers social factors like class, gender, and education that shaped psychoanalytic practice. The final part explores Freud's views on family and social institutions, critiquing the authoritarian bias in his social theory while acknowledging its potential to reveal hidden aspects of domination. This work is vital for those interested in the history of ideas and psychoanalysis. Jos Brunner is a Senior Lecturer at Tel Aviv University and has authored numerous works on psychoanalysis and polit