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The inconstant "principle of constancy".

M Kanzer

    Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association
    |January 1, 1983
    PubMed
    Summary

    Freud's principle of constancy evolved from clinical observations, initially seeking complete energy discharge, later shifting towards relative balance. This principle was renamed the Nirvana principle, paradoxically linking constancy with self-extinction and Eros with life drives.

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    Area of Science:

    • Psychology
    • Psychoanalysis
    • Neuroscience

    Background:

    • Freud's principle of constancy originated from clinical observations in cathartic therapy and early psychoanalysis.
    • It was influenced by his "neuronic inertia" principles, distinguishing between complete discharge and relative balance.
    • The principle's link to the pleasure-unpleasure principle was empirically maintained for decades.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review the evolution and underlying principles of Freud's concept of constancy.
    • To analyze the transformation of the constancy principle into the Nirvana principle.
    • To explore the connection between constancy, psychic determinism, and neurophysiological aspects.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of Freud's writings, particularly "Project (1895)" and later works.
    • Analysis of clinical observations and their impact on theoretical development.
    • Examination of historical influences, such as J. F. Herbart's teachings.

    Main Results:

    • The original constancy principle, aiming for complete discharge, foreshadowed the death drive.
    • The extended principle, seeking relative balance, preceded the life drives (Eros).
    • The principle was renamed Nirvana, incongruously linking constancy with self-extinction, while Eros became associated with the extended principle.

    Conclusions:

    • Freud's principle of constancy underwent a significant transformation, shifting from a drive towards discharge to an association with self-extinction.
    • This revision, leading to the Nirvana principle, has been overlooked in much of the literature.
    • The concept of constancy, influenced by Herbart, bridges psychological and neurophysiological perspectives on mental development and psychic determinism.

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