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The life and work of Sigmund Freud continue to fascinate general and professional readers alike. Joel Whitebook here presents the first major biography of Freud since the last century, taking into account recent developments in psychoanalytic theory and practice, gender studies, philosophy, cultural theory, and more. Offering a radically new portrait of the creator of psychoanalysis, this book explores the man in all his complexity alongside an interpretation of his theories that cuts through the stereotypes that surround him. The development of Freud's thinking is addressed not only in the context of his personal life, but also in that of society and culture at large, while the impact of his thinking on subsequent issues of psychoanalysis, philosophy, and social theory is fully examined. Whitebook demonstrates that declarations of Freud's obsolescence are premature, and, with his clear and engaging style, brings this vivid figure to life in compelling and readable fashion.

Foucault's rejection of the repressive hypothesis is generally taken as a critique of Freud. Its real target is, however, the left Freudian tradition, which received its paradigmatic articulation in the work of Herbert Marcuse. Marcuse sought to show that the conflict between the repressive demands of civilization and instinctual desires of the individual didn't represent a transhistorical state of affairs, as Freud maintained. He argues, rather, that it represents a particular historical constellation that can be transcended. Foucault purports to reject the entire structure in which the problem arises, that is, the conflict between the demands of civilization and bodily based desire. The thesis of this article is, however, that he doesn't reject the conflict, but simply displaces it. In his scheme, the displaced conflict takes place between the apparatus of sexuality and bodies and pleasures. Furthermore, Foucault maintains that the emancipation of bodies and pleasures from their entrapment in the apparatus of sexuality constitutes the desirable political program. The diagnosis of the situation and the suggested political remedy are, in other words, exactly parallel to Marcuse's.

Explores the controversy surrounding the opening of the exhibition, Freud: Conflict and Culture, at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC, within the larger context of the current status of Sigmund Freud & psychoanalysis in US culture. Challenges raised to psychoanalysis from several fronts are examined, including (1) the feminist & lesbian/gay movements; (2) internal authoritarianism & insularity; (3) antipositivist trends; & (4) bureaucratic insistence on efficiency, effectiveness, & profitability. Psychoanalysis's focus on the "project of autonomy" is described, highlighting the theories of the late Cornelius Castoriadis. Ways in which the field might overcome its current crisis of legitimacy are suggested. K. Hyatt Stewart

Examines the life & career of Cornelius Castoriadis, calling him a Selbstdenker, a true independent thinker amid the shifting influences & trends of the 20th century. This is seen in Castoriadis's criticisms of existentialist, structuralist, & poststructuralist views on the novelty of history; study of psychoanalysis; notion of an autonomous society; & attacks on the USSR. Castoriadis's identification with the Greek philosophical tradition, sense of omnipotence, & intense enjoyment of life inspired total confidence in his own thoughts, made cooperation in political groups difficult, & enabled him to stand alone against criticism & disappointment. It is concluded that those who carry on his legacy will continue to struggle with the questions of modernity & revolution. T. Arnold