Sublimation: Inquiries Into Theoretical Psychoanalysis

By Hans W. Loewald

Book Overview

In psychoanalytic theory, sublimation--the process of expressing instinctual impulses in constructive, socially acceptable forms--is a central, yet poorly understood psychic process. The eminent psychoanalyst Hans W. Loewald here offers a provocative new examination of sublimation.
After reviewing the writings of Freud, Fenichel, Hartmann, Winnicott, and Kris on sublimation, Dr. Loewald presents his own ideas. In his attempt to disentangle sublimation from other concepts with which it is often confused, he examines it within three contexts: as reconciliation, as defense, and as symbolic expression. He establishes a strong case for the undifferentiated quality of early life--a time of unselfconscious unity prior to awareness of self or other. Sublimation, according to Dr. Loewald, is an act of instinctual expression derived from this early pre-differentiated period.
Dr. Loewald's inquiry leads to a reexamination and revision of basic psychoanalytic theory relating to instincts, symbolism, motivation, ego development, and various emotional processes.
"This is a new and highly thought-provoking approach to an understanding of the phenomena of sublimation."--A. Scott Dowling, M.D., Case Western Reserve University
"This book is not only a profound consideration of the nature of sublimation--a subject of excruciating importance for humans--it is a summarizing statement encompassing the whole work of a great psychoanalyst."--Vann Spruiell, M.D., Tulane University

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0300116454
• ISBN13: 9780300116458
• Release Date: December 1988
• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Length: 104 Pages
• Weight: 0.31 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

thorough investigations

This book offers a rather thorough investigation of sublimation, and examines the process in relation to other psychoanalytic theories and principles. While Loewald's interpretations of various aspects of psychoanalytic theory may meet some criticism or disagreement, his approach in examining the processes of sublimation is quite enlightening nonetheless. It's a must-read for anyone interested in psychoanalytic theory.