Homo Psyche: On Queer Theory and Erotophobia

Homo Psyche examines the psychological foundations of queer theory and argues that it is erotophobic due to its conservative and narrow model of erotic life. It introduces metapsychology as a new dimension of analysis to challenge the fields conceptual impasses and politico-ethical limitations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2021
Publisher: Fordham University Press

Winner of the 2022 Alan Bray Memorial Book Award and a Lammy Finalist in LGBTQ Studies, this book delves into an intriguing observation: queer theory, despite its political activism, rhetorical prowess, and intellectual dynamism, adheres to a psychologically conservative and narrow model of erotic life. Despite decades of vibrant queer critical thought, the field has yet to fully grasp that sexuality's radical potential lies in its recognition as "exogenous, intersubjective, and intrusive" (Laplanche). In particular, despite recent calls to deconstruct the ideological foundations of contemporary queer thought, no study has explored the unique role of psychology in shaping the field's conceptual impasses and politico-ethical limitations.

To address this gap, Homo Psyche introduces metapsychology as a new dimension of analysis in relation to the theories of French psychoanalyst Jean Laplanche, who advocated for "new foundations for psychoanalysis" that departed significantly from existing Freudian and Lacanian models of the mind. By staging this intervention, Astor deepens current debates about the future of queer studies by demonstrating how the field's systematic neglect of metapsychology as a necessary and independent realm of ideology ultimately enforces the complicity of queer studies with psychological conventions that are fundamentally erotophobic and thus antithetical to queer theory's radical and ethical project.

In Chapter 1, "Queer Theory and the Psychology of Desire," Astor explores the psychological roots of queer theory's erotophobia. He argues that queer theory's reliance on a heteronormative model of desire, which posits that sexual attraction is primarily directed towards opposite-sex partners, perpetuates a narrow understanding of sexuality and reinforces heteronormative norms. Astor critiques the field's tendency to pathologize non-heterosexual desire, such as bisexuality and homosexuality, as deviant or abnormal, contributing to the marginalization and stigmatization of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Chapter 2, "The Politics of Desire in Queer Theory," delves into the political implications of queer theory's erotophobia. Astor argues that the field's obsession with deconstructing and challenging heteronormative structures has inadvertently led to a neglect of the political dimensions of desire. He highlights how queer theory's emphasis on individual liberation and self-expression can overshadow the broader social and political contexts in which desires are formed and expressed. Astor calls for a more nuanced understanding of desire that recognizes the complex interplay between individual and collective desires, as well as the power dynamics that shape them.

Chapter 3, "Psychoanalysis and Queer Theory: A Complex Relationship," explores the complex relationship between psychoanalysis and queer theory. Astor argues that while psychoanalysis has been instrumental in shaping queer theory's understanding of sexuality and desire, it has also perpetuated heteronormative biases and pathologized non-heterosexual desire. He highlights how psychoanalytic theories have often reinforced the notion that sexuality is fixed and immutable, leading to the marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals who challenge these assumptions. Astor calls for a critical re-examination of psychoanalytic theories to ensure that they are inclusive of diverse sexual orientations and desires.

Chapter 4, "Deconstructing Erotophobia in Queer Theory," proposes a framework for deconstructing erotophobia in queer theory. Astor suggests that queer theory can move beyond its reliance on a heteronormative model of desire by embracing a more expansive and inclusive understanding of sexuality. He advocates for a metapsychological approach that recognizes the intersubjective nature of desire and the role of the unconscious in shaping sexual orientation and desire. Astor also calls for a more ethical and responsible approach to sexuality that prioritizes consent, respect, and diversity.

In conclusion, Homo Psyche offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between queer theory and psychology. By introducing metapsychology as a new dimension of analysis, Astor challenges the field's erotophobia and advocates for a more inclusive and ethical understanding of sexuality. The book contributes to ongoing debates about the future of queer studies and offers valuable insights for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of sexuality and desire.

Weight: 396g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780823294152