Ordinary Unhappiness

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!

Dive into an intriguing conversation about the challenges of teaching Freud, especially the toughest case studies like Dora. The hosts discuss the complexities of communication in workplaces, exploring what it truly means for employees to feel heard. They unravel resistance to Jung, while teasing a potential deep dive into his theories. The allure of the occult, Western esoteric traditions, and even demons are thrown into the mix, revealing a captivating intersection of psychology and the mystical!

Adrian Daub, an academic and the co-host of In Bed With the Right, joins the discussion to delve into his book, The Cancel Culture Panic. He explores the historical roots and global ramifications of cancel culture, drawing parallels with historical complaints about political correctness. The conversation highlights the societal fascination with college campuses in the cancel culture narrative and critiques the moral panic surrounding free speech. Daub also unpacks how personal anecdotes shape these discussions, revealing deeper cultural anxieties in our digital age.

Dive into a thought-provoking analysis of the film Civil War (2024), which serves as both a chilling warning and a reflection of societal anxieties. The discussion examines how fantasies of civil war permeate American discourse, distorting historical realities. Explore the portrayal of violence in film and the psychological toll on photojournalists amidst chaos. With a focus on the ethical complexities of war narratives, the hosts challenge listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about power, representation, and the future of conflict in society.

The conversation dives into the emotional aftermath of elections, exploring feelings of anger and depression. Psychoanalysis is examined for its role in understanding these complex responses. The hosts also tackle the intriguing concept of hope and its significance in turbulent times. Additionally, they discuss political hysteria, revealing patterns of behavior in American politics. Historical context enriches the discussion, highlighting how past events shape current societal sentiments.