Happy 2025!
We're kicking off this new year by returning to Freud's later work. Specifically, 'Analysis Terminable and Interminable' (1937), building on our explorations of 'Constructions in Analysis' from last term.
This work was one of the last Freud published in his lifetime, written only a couple of years before his death. He remains as reflective as ever, fixing his gaze upon the challenges faced by psychoanalysis - upon its own limits. He contends with a certain gap at the end of psychoanalysis, that of the difference between the practical end of therapy and the theoretical end, the ultimate resolution of inner conflicts. Freud is skeptical about the possibility of achieving this latter goal, even if psychoanalytic therapy is aimed towards it, suggesting that some residue of unresolved conflict always remains.
This opens up psychoanalysis as an ongoing process rather than a means to a concrete end, returning to the key question - when is analysis 'finished'? How do we navigate the tension between striving for resolution and accepting the inevitability of ̶d̶e̶a̶t̶h̶ unresolved elements? And how might we further engage with the interminable side of psychoanalysis? (hint: come to the society!)
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Join Us
In this session, we’ll discuss:
- Freud’s evolving views on the goals and limitations of psychoanalysis.
- The implications of his emphasis on biological and instinctual factors.
- How this essay shapes contemporary debates in psychoanalytic theory and practice.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts and interpretations of this profound work. See you at Room 3.320 @ 6 PM!
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Room: 3.320 @ 6pm
As always, we will reconvene in Top Bar afterwards:)
Attendance is open to all, free of charge, as per usual!!
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Interested in Psychoanalysis? Join the Psychoanalysis Society! We’re a student-led community dedicated to the analysis of the unconscious, desire, and society. Our weekly meetings feature engaging discussions, guest speakers, as well as the occasional social!
Whether you're new to the subject or already familiar with the field, everyone is welcome—no prior knowledge required. Plus, membership is completely free! https://www.essexstudent.com/opportunities/club/12441/