Patrick Blanchfield

Abby Kluchin and Patrick Blanchfield dive into the impactful work of D. W. Winnicott, a cornerstone of British psychoanalysis. They explore how WWII influenced his theories and the evolution of maternal roles in psychoanalysis. The conversation highlights how negative emotions can foster creativity, contrasting Winnicott's views with traditional psychoanalytic perspectives. They also discuss the complexities of caregiving and its societal undervaluation, all while shedding light on the emotional dynamics between parents and children and how these insights are relevant today.

Simran Jeet Singh, a religion professor and Sikh advocate, discusses the intersection of academia and journalism. Patrick Blanchfield, an expert in religion and international affairs, shares insights on navigating complex themes in accessible ways. Brook Wilensky-Lanford, an author and editor, highlights the importance of representation and personal narratives in media. The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing specialized language, the vulnerabilities of public engagement, and the ever-evolving landscape of online writing about religion.

In this discussion, Patrick Blanchfield, a journalist and author specializing in gun violence, delves into the complexities of America's gun control debate. He highlights the disparity between mass shootings and everyday violence, emphasizing the need for a reframing of the conversation to inspire effective change. The talk critiques the recent legislative efforts and the hurdles in the Senate, while suggesting a public health approach to gun violence that addresses systemic issues rather than traditional policy measures.