Psychoanalysis and Philosophy in Berlin
The text discusses the motivations behind becoming a psychoanalyst, emphasizing that intentions of healing and understanding typically stem from fantasy, which misaligns with the true role of an analyst. It argues that actual desire for analysis emerges only through personal analytic experience, leading to a novel relation to suffering and desire, independent of moral goals.
Lacan reminds us: love is not necessarily mutual. In analysis, it is the patient who loves, and the analyst who listens. This non-reciprocal love—far from being cold—is what makes psychoanalysis possible. Only by refusing to mirror love can the analyst help transform it, rather than dissolve it.
What can books teach us about being human? In this thoughtful interview, Olivia, an autistic reader, shares her top book recommendations and the insights they’ve given her about life, relationships, and self-reflection.
Next week marks the beginning of an extensive seminar on clinical structures in psychoanalysis, a collaboration with Theory Underground. I am very excited about this project, which is designed to distinguish itself both in form and content. I am particularly looking forward to working closely with Dave from Theory Underground. Dave will be assisting me… Continue reading Extensive Seminar on the Clinical Structures
This seminar offers a deep dive into Lacan's psychoanalytic approach. The second installment spans five sessions, covering topics like transference, diagnosis, interpretations, the analyst's desire, and clinical case study building. It's open to all, whether or not they attended the first part. The hybrid format combines in-person and Zoom sessions.
Leon Brenner 