A Political Psychoanalysis for the Anthropocene Age: The Fierce Urgency of Now

A Political Psychoanalysis for the Anthropocene Age explores the politics of climate change through a psychoanalytic lens, identifying core illusions of the Western psyche and their impact on behavior and emotional responses. It considers the role of psychoanalysis in the public-political realm and how it can contribute to reforming psychoanalysis education and practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 11 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book "A Political Psychoanalysis for the Anthropocene Age" delves into the intricate realm of politics and climate change, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the prevailing political discourse surrounding this pressing issue. Presented in two distinct parts, the first part employs a psychoanalytic lens to examine the profound impact of political-economic realities on the formation of Western political selves in the Anthropocene age. Author Ryan LaMothe identifies and explores the core illusions that shape the Western psyche, influencing behavior, relationships, and emotional responses to climate change, such as eco-mourning and eco-denial. Through a psychoanalytic and philosophical lens, the book explores a wide range of topics, including political dwelling, sovereignty, political violence, and change, as well as the formidable obstacles posed by systems like capitalism, nationalism, and imperialism in addressing climate change. Additionally, it delves into the challenges of hope and the urgent need for transformative solutions.

In the second part of the book, LaMothe explores the role of psychoanalysis in the public-political realm and advocates for the integration of a psychoanalytic political perspective into the education and practice of psychoanalysis. He argues that a psychoanalytic political perspective can provide valuable insights into the underlying dynamics of power, ideology, and social structures that contribute to climate change and its mitigation. By integrating psychoanalytic principles into political analysis, policymakers, activists, and individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological factors that drive human behavior and promote more effective and sustainable solutions to the climate crisis.

"A Political Psychoanalysis for the Anthropocene Age" is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the complex interplay between politics, climate change, and the human psyche. It offers psychoanalysts, psychotherapists, and anyone interested in the politics of climate change a valuable resource for understanding the emotional and psychological dimensions of this global challenge. Through its interdisciplinary approach, the book provides a roadmap for promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future, one that recognizes the importance of addressing the core illusions and emotional responses that shape our collective response to climate change.

Weight: 352g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032193625