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Parallax

Leon Brenner: Lacan and the embrace of lack

Aug 15, 2024
Leon Brenner, a Berlin-based psychoanalyst and expert in Lacanian theory, dives deep into the nuances of desire and the concept of 'lack.' He contrasts Lacanian and Freudian methods, revealing their implications for modern therapy, particularly in Europe. The discussion extends to the impact of culture on trauma and identity, urging a rethinking of traditional therapeutic practices. Brenner emphasizes the importance of embracing one's fragmented self for a genuine understanding of psychological balance, all while navigating the complexities of contemporary human longing.
01:08:31

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Quick takeaways

  • Lacan's theory asserts that both reality and fantasy structure our understanding of existence, prompting individuals to engage differently with truth.
  • The concept of 'lack' serves as a fundamental driver of human desire, revealing how unfulfillment shapes our relational dynamics.

Deep dives

Lacan's Critique of Objective Reality

Lacan challenges the mainstream perception of objective reality, particularly within American psychoanalysis. He argues that both reality and fantasy share a structural similarity, acting as a sort of interface to our understanding of existence. Lacan uses cinema as a metaphor to illustrate how fantasy defers our engagement with the painful truths of reality, stopping just short of confronting what lies beyond our tolerable perception. By maintaining this deferral, individuals can achieve a form of satisfaction while still appearing psychologically stable.

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