PlasticPills - Philosophy & Critical Theory Podcast

Pill Pod 225 - Lacan on the Pervert

Oct 6, 2025
The discussion explores Lacan's structural definition of perversion and distinguishes it from common sexual fetishes. A fascinating case study highlights ritualistic behavior with barbers, and the hosts delve into the complexities of sadism and masochism. They analyze how family dynamics shape perverse structures and provide insights into disavowal versus repression. Controversial figures like Trump are examined through a perverse lens, while literary references like de Sade add depth. The episode wraps up with a comparison of neurotics, psychotics, and perverts.
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INSIGHT

Perverse Structure Is A Failed Separation

  • Lacanian perversion is a structural position where separation (symbolic castration) is interrupted, not merely odd sexual acts.
  • Perverts stage limits and law in reality to produce jouissance because they can't internalize the symbolic order.
ANECDOTE

Barber Shaving Compulsion

  • The barber case describes a man who seeks repeated shavings to provoke the barber's annoyance and orgasm in his clothes.
  • The ritual repeats compulsively and ties childhood traumas to a staged adult scenario.
INSIGHT

Perversion Replaces Symbolic With Theatrical

  • Perverts enact limits externally: they force others to pronounce or enact a law they never internalized.
  • That external staging replaces symbolic mediation with real-world theater to access jouissance.
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