Frederick Crews, Emeritus professor of English at UC Berkeley and a renowned critic of Freudian psychoanalysis, dives into Freud's controversial legacy. He discusses his latest work, painting Freud as a potentially manipulative figure and critiques the foundations of psychoanalysis. Using Freud's personal letters, Crews reveals complexities in his character while questioning the balance between rationality and myth in psychological discourse. The conversation takes a turn towards modern skepticism of the pharmaceutical industry and the need for rational debate.

Frederick Crews, Emeritus professor of English at UC Berkeley, passionately critiques Sigmund Freud's legacy, arguing that Freud was a manipulative figure whose theories veer towards pseudoscience. He shares insights from Freud's letters to Martha Bernays, painting a complex portrait of a man driven by greed and ambition. The discussion delves into the clash between Freudian psychoanalysis and contemporary neuroscience, questioning the empirical validity of Freud's ideas while exploring the evolution of literary criticism influenced by his theories. Crews compellingly challenges established norms in mental health treatment.

Frederick Crews, an Emeritus professor of English at UC Berkeley and a noted critic of Freudian theories, dives deep into Sigmund Freud's controversial legacy. He argues that Freud was not just brilliant but also a flawed individual driven by greed and ambition. Crews examines Freud’s early life through personal letters, critiques the dichotomy of myth and reality surrounding psychoanalysis, and questions its scientific validity today. The conversation contrasts empirical research with therapeutic practice, challenging long-held beliefs in the psychotherapy community.