Transitional Subjects: Critical Theory and Object Relations

Critical social theory has a long relationship with psychoanalysis, with recent thinkers drawing on the object-relations school. Transitional Subjects is the first book-length collection to explore this engagement, featuring contributions from leading figures in both fields. It offers a synoptic overview of current research at the intersection of critical theory and object-relations psychoanalysis, exploring the critical potential of object-relations psychoanalysis to understand social issues such as aggression, narcissism, and torture. The dialogue between these two theoretical traditions has enriched critical theory and invigorated psychoanalysis.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 280 pages
\n Publication date: 06 August 2019
\n Publisher: Columbia University Press
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Critical social theory has had a longstanding and fruitful relationship with psychoanalysis, which has been characterized by profound creativity and productivity. While Freud and Fromm played pivotal roles in the early Frankfurt School, recent thinkers have turned to the object-relations school of psychoanalysis for inspiration.

Transitional Subjects is a groundbreaking collection that delves into the intersection of critical theory and the work of Melanie Klein, Donald Winnicott, and other members of the object-relations school. This book offers a comprehensive overview of current research at this interface, featuring contributions from esteemed scholars such as Axel Honneth, Joel Whitebook, Noëlle McAfee, Sara Beardsworth, and C. Fred Alford.

Through its diverse perspectives, Transitional Subjects explores the critical potential of object-relations psychoanalysis, shedding light on pressing social issues such as aggression, narcissism, "progress," and torture. The book fosters a productive dialogue that deepens our understanding of the self as intersubjectively and socially constructed and contributes to our understanding of contemporary "social pathologies."

Moreover, Transitional Subjects demonstrates how critical theory and object-relations psychoanalysis have mutually enriched each other, leading to a revitalization of psychoanalysis. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners interested in exploring the complex interplay between these two theoretical traditions.

\n Weight: 344g\n
Dimension: 141 x 216 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780231183192\n \n