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Updated: Oct 21, 2025

Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
Against Neuropsychoanalysis: Why a Dialogue With Neuroscience Is Neither Necessary nor Sufficient for Psychoanalysis
1Department of Philosophy, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa.
Abstract:
The author argues against neuropsychoanalysis by focusing on the metaphysical issues. Neuropsychoanalysts argue that the philosophical theories of dual aspect monism (DAM) and anomalous monism support their position. The author contends that not only do DAM and anomalous monism not offer support for neuropsychoanalysis; they are also inconsistent with its claims. The conceptual distinction between the mental and the physical - the so-called "epistemological dualism" cited by neuropsychoanalysis-stands as an insurmountable barrier to the project of neuropsychoanalysis. By way of example, the author offers an analogy with artworks. The author concludes the paper by arguing that neuropsychoanalysis deflects from the real project of psychoanalysis, which is the study of persons, not so-called "mindbrains."
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