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New Books in Psychology

Camille Robcis, "Disalienation: Politics, Philosophy, and Radical Psychiatry in Postwar France" (U Chicago Press, 2021)

Jan 2, 2025
Camille Robcis, a historian at Columbia University and author of "Disalienation," delves into the fascinating world of radical psychiatry in postwar France. She explores the dual nature of psychiatric institutions, revealing their potential for both oppression and liberation. The discussion highlights the interplay between political regimes and psychiatric practices, emphasizing the importance of collective care. Robcis also connects historical movements to current global political struggles, showcasing how these ideas can transform contemporary mental health discourse.
01:04:45

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Quick takeaways

  • Camille Robcis explores the radical psychiatric movement in postwar France, emphasizing its political implications and socio-economic contexts across diverse historical landscapes.
  • Institutional psychotherapy arose from the need to transform oppressive psychiatric practices by fostering humane care, community engagement, and therapeutic relationships during WWII.

Deep dives

The Intersection of Psychoanalysis and Political Thought

The podcast examines the relationship between psychoanalysis and political thought, particularly through the work of Camille Robesies. Robesies highlights how her scholarly focus has evolved from a concern with conservative uses of psychoanalysis to exploring its liberatory potential. This shift is significant, as it underscores the importance of understanding psychoanalysis not merely as a clinical practice but as an intertwined field impacting social norms and political ideologies, especially in the context of modern European history.

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