I and Thou: an examination of empathy

Empathy is introduced as an important current issue in psychoanalysis and in psychotherapy in general. Kohut's contribution to this is examined and placed in the context of the relationship world of Buber. Similarities between Kohut's empathic relatedness and Buber's I-Thou are demonstrated as well as some congruence in their clinical views. The significance of this apparent accord, both for psychoanalysis and psychotherapeutic practice, is considered.