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The embodied self: thinking psychoanalytically in a time of 'science'
1Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Washington, USA. karol@karolmarshall.com
The Journal of Analytical Psychology
|October 21, 2009
Summary
Psychoanalysis can remain relevant by integrating insights from genetics, cultural studies, and neuro-anatomy. This approach enhances understanding of human sexual experience and gender identity in contemporary scientific discourse.
Area of Science:
- Psychoanalysis
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Cultural Studies
Background:
- Psychoanalysis faces challenges in maintaining relevance amidst scientific advancements.
- Interdisciplinary dialogue is crucial for psychoanalytic theory and practice.
- Human sexuality is a complex field studied by multiple disciplines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how psychoanalysis can integrate findings from genetics, cultural studies, and neuro-anatomy.
- To demonstrate the continued value of psychoanalysis in understanding human sexual experience.
- To propose methods for incorporating research on sexual desire and gender identity into psychoanalytic thought and practice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review integrating psychoanalytic theory with findings from related scientific disciplines.
- Conceptual analysis of human sexual experience, sexual desire, and gender identity.
- Case examples illustrating the application of integrated psychoanalytic approaches in clinical practice.
Main Results:
- Psychoanalysis can enhance its relevance by engaging with discoveries in genetics, cultural studies, and neuro-anatomy.
- Integration of external research findings enriches psychoanalytic understanding of sexual desire and gender identity.
- Psychoanalytic practice can benefit from incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives on human sexuality.
Conclusions:
- Psychoanalysis must embrace interdisciplinary collaboration to stay relevant in a scientific era.
- Integrating insights from genetics, cultural studies, and neuro-anatomy offers a pathway for advancing psychoanalytic understanding of human sexuality.
- Openness to external research is key for psychoanalysis to contribute meaningfully to contemporary discussions on sexual experience and identity.
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