Psychoanalytic Study of Society, V. 17: Essays in Honor of George D. and Louise A. Spindler

Volume 17 of the Journal of American Anthropology includes critical appreciations of George and Louise Spindler's multidisciplinary contributions, focusing on homogeneity and heterogeneity, education, projective techniques, psychotherapy and culture, unconscious aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and medieval messianism and Sabbatianism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In Volume 17, a collection of critical appreciations highlights George and Louise Spindler's multidisciplinary contributions, delving into diverse topics such as homogeneity and heterogeneity in American cultural anthropology, the shaping of American anthropology, education, and the utilization of projective techniques in the field. Furthermore, the volume explores essential subjects like the primary process, psychotherapy and culture, the unconscious aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and medieval messianism and Sabbatianism.

The chapter on homogeneity and heterogeneity in American cultural anthropology, authored by S. Parman, examines the interplay between uniformity and diversity within American cultural anthropology. It explores the various approaches and perspectives adopted by scholars in this field, highlighting both the commonalities and differences in their research methodologies and theoretical frameworks. Parman also discusses the impact of cultural globalization on American anthropology and the challenges and opportunities it presents for the field.

The chapter on the molding of American anthropology, written by M. Suarez, explores the historical development and evolution of American anthropology. It examines the influence of various scholars, institutions, and cultural factors on the shaping of American anthropology's theoretical and methodological approaches. Suarez also discusses the challenges and controversies faced by American anthropology in the 20th and 21st centuries and the efforts made by scholars to address them.

Education is another critical area of study in Volume 17. H. Trueba's chapter examines the role of education in shaping individuals and societies. It explores the educational systems in different cultures, the impact of education on social and economic development, and the challenges and opportunities faced by educators in promoting inclusive and equitable education. Trueba also discusses the role of education in promoting cultural understanding and tolerance.

Projective techniques are widely used in cultural anthropology to gain insights into the subjective experiences and perceptions of individuals. R. Edgerton and G. DeVos's chapter explores the uses of projective techniques in the field, including their strengths and limitations. It discusses various projective techniques, such as dream interpretation, art therapy, and role-playing, and their applications in understanding cultural beliefs, values, and behaviors.

Additional topics covered in Volume 17 include the primary process, psychotherapy and culture, the unconscious aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and medieval messianism and Sabbatianism.

M. Spiro's chapter on the primary process delves into the concept of the primary process in cultural anthropology. It explores the role of the primary process in shaping individuals and societies, emphasizing the importance of early childhood experiences and the impact of cultural and social factors on the development of personality. Spiro also discusses the primary process in the context of psychotherapy and its potential for promoting personal growth and healing.

L. Bloom's chapter on psychotherapy and culture explores the intersection of psychotherapy and cultural factors. It examines the challenges and opportunities faced by therapists working with clients from different cultural backgrounds, including the importance of cultural sensitivity, cross-cultural competence, and the use of culturally appropriate therapeutic techniques. Bloom also discusses the role of culture in shaping mental health and the impact of cultural differences on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.

A. Falk's chapter on the unconscious aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict examines the unconscious factors that contribute to the ongoing conflict between Arab and Israeli societies. It explores the role of historical trauma, collective memory, and psychological processes in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of individuals and groups involved in the conflict. Falk also discusses the potential for psychoanalysis and other therapeutic approaches to promote reconciliation and healing in the region.

W. Meissner's chapter on medieval messianism and Sabbatianism explores the historical and cultural significance of messianism and Sabbatianism in the Middle Ages. It examines the beliefs and practices associated with these movements, including the emergence of messianic movements in different historical contexts, the role of messianism in shaping religious and political ideologies, and the significance of Sabbatianism in Jewish and Christian theology. Meissner also discusses the historical and cultural relevance of these movements in the contemporary world.

In conclusion, Volume 17 offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of George and Louise Spindler's multidisciplinary contributions to cultural anthropology. It provides a rich tapestry of perspectives and approaches, covering diverse topics such as homogeneity and heterogeneity, the shaping of American anthropology, education, projective techniques, psychotherapy and culture, the unconscious aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and medieval messianism and Sabbatianism. The chapters in this volume contribute to our understanding of the field and its evolution, and they offer valuable insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138872448