Ordinary Unhappiness

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on the complex nature of hate and aggression. Explore how everyday situations reflect displaced feelings of hate and how societal ideologies channel aggression while disavowing hate. The conversation touches on theologies like 'hating the sin but loving the sinner' and examines the blame game in politics, revealing the cruelty enjoyed across party lines. Gain insights into how hate is used to disqualify and condemn groups, all while maintaining a facade of legitimacy.

Abby, Patrick, and Dan conclude their close reading of Winnicott’s “Hate in the Counter-Transference,” unpacking and tying together its three biggest arguments. First, there’s the connection Winnicott draws between the therapeutic encounter and childhood development: more than just an analogy, these two environments are directly connected, and in fraught ways. Second, there’s the link he draws between early experiences of “deprivation,” counter-transferential enactments in treatment, and the struggles of certain patients to establish a stable, safe sense of selfhood. Third, and most provocatively, is Winnicott’s articulation of how feelings of aggression and even hatred naturally arise not just from a child seeking to assert its independence, but from a caregiver. As Abby, Patrick, and Dan discuss, Winnicott’s idea of the “good enough mother,” far from being an exercise in mother-blaming, is in fact a humbling and compassionate recognition of motherhood as a kind of “impossible profession” (and more). And it reveals an approach to pathology, social conventions, and ideologies of the family that are critically different from Freud’s. Plus: the cruelty of the “cult of mother,” sublimated aggression in grim nursery rhymes, and the joy of stealing noses. Up next, in Part IV: we get granular about the implications of Winnicott’s thinking for confronting real-world expressions of hate and aggression in everyday social interactions, institutional dynamics, and, above all, politics.Have you noticed that Freud is back? Got questions about psychoanalysis? Or maybe you’ve traversed the fantasy and lived to tell the tale? Leave us a voicemail! (646) 450-0847  A podcast about psychoanalysis, politics, pop culture, and the ways we suffer now. New episodes on Saturdays. Follow us on social media:  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/OrdinaryUnhappiness Twitter: @UnhappinessPod Instagram: @OrdinaryUnhappiness Patreon: patreon.com/OrdinaryUnhappiness Theme song: Formal Chicken - Gnossienne No. 1 https://open.spotify.com/album/2MIIYnbyLqriV3vrpUTxxO Provided by Fruits Music

Dive into the complexities of human emotion as the hosts unpack Winnicott’s insights on hate and aggression. They explore the post-war therapeutic landscape and highlight the challenges clinicians face with difficult patients. Instead of opting for drastic measures like lobotomies, Winnicott emphasizes understanding the dynamics of transferential encounters. The discussion navigates the interplay of emotional responses, delving into how rage and grief shape early emotional development.

Dive into the intriguing concept of aggression as explored through D.W. Winnicott's theories. The discussion uncovers how feelings of hate can be pivotal in familial and therapeutic settings. Emotional complexities in parenting, particularly in response to concealed identities, take center stage. Insights into childhood aggression reveal its role in development, seen not just as negative but essential to growth. The podcast encourages a deeper understanding of the interplay between aggression, love, and movement in human relationships.

The hosts dive into the humorously complex world of cryptocurrency, merging finance with psychoanalytic theory. They tackle capitalism through a Lacanian lens, exposing the irrationalities of financial markets. Personal anecdotes reveal unconventional career paths, critiquing profit-driven theories in finance. Additionally, they shine a light on the deceptive allure of cryptocurrencies and the scams lurking within, showcasing the absurd nature of a fictional 'rug pull coin.' It's a witty blend of satire and deep thought.

Delve into Freud's intriguing views on religion and neurosis, where individual obsessions meet collective rituals. The dialogue navigates Freud's Jewish heritage and Catholic influences, unraveling his nuanced understanding of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Discover how shared public practices contrast with personal suffering, and ponder Freud's ambivalence towards religion. Sprinkle in some surprising anecdotes, like Martin Luther’s health issues and unexpected Christmas dance objections, and you have a rich tapestry of psychological insights and cultural critique!

Joining Abby and Patrick is Simon Critchley, the Hans Jonas Professor of Philosophy at the New School for Social Research, acclaimed for his explorations of mysticism and existentialism. In a captivating conversation, they delve into Critchley’s new book on mysticism, specifically discussing how mystical experiences transcend the self. Topics range from the eroticism in the Song of Songs to the unique narratives of mystics like Margery Kempe and Meister Eckhart. They also examine the rich interplay between mysticism, gender, and modern psychoanalytic insights.

The discussion dives into the theme of movement, exploring what inspires different personal journeys. They reflect on listener feedback about Jungian concepts and examine the evolving research on Sabina Spielrein. A fascinating analysis of the intersection between psychoanalysis and fiction emerges, with insights into analyst-authors and narrative expectations. The conversation also touches on psychoanalytic film theory, highlighting the risks of jargon and influence, while offering recommendations for intriguing reads and films.

Jordan Stein, a writer and scholar specializing in psychoanalysis and literature, joins the hosts to unravel the complex notion of fantasy. They discuss how fantasies straddle the gap between conscious thought and the unconscious, reflecting our understanding of identity. Highlighting Nina Simone's artistry, they explore her powerful expression of personal and political themes. From her evocative performances to the intricate dance of fantasy and reality in psychoanalysis, the conversation sheds light on how our desires shape emotional landscapes and self-expression.

Dive into the complexities of "Holiday Syndrome" as the hosts unravel the emotional rollercoaster that comes with Thanksgiving. They explore how family dynamics and societal pressures amplify anxieties during festive gatherings. The discussion touches on the psychoanalytic interpretations of holiday rituals and how regressive behaviors manifest over turkey and traditional dishes. Gender roles are humorously critiqued, revealing the often-unspoken tensions lurking beneath the surface of holiday cheer. Expect a blend of personal anecdotes and keen psychological insights!