Psychoanalyzing the Left and Right after Donald Trump: Conservatism, Liberalism, and Neoliberal Populisms

Authors: Samuels, Robert
Shows why it is hard to understand contemporary politics and society without using psychoanalytic theories
Argues that the emerging fields of evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and behavioural economics are actually political ideologies masquerading as scientific discourses
Clarifies the foundations of psychoanalysis and the possibility of a new politics based on psychoanalytic practices

This book outlines a new model for global social justice movements that is based on Freud and Lacan’s central insights regarding the unconscious, repetition, drives, and transference. Since most of our current social issues are global in nature, Bob Samuels convincingly argues that we need a global solution, but that global solidarity is blocked by narcissistic nationalism and the capitalist death drive. In examining contemporary social movements for global justice, Samuels articulates a comprehensive theory of non-pathological social solidarity, and argues that in the age of multinational corporations and global climate change, we need a new model of global justice and government that requires an understanding of analytic neutrality and free association. This book uses psychoanalytic theories and practices to explain how someone like Trump can rise to power, and explores why liberals have failed to provide a convincing or effective political alternative. It will be compelling reading to students and teachers in a range of psychological and political disciplines, and to anyone interested in psychoanalysis and current politics.

Number of Pages
V, 113
Topics
Critical Psychology
Psychoanalysis
Political Theory
Social Justice, Equality and Human Rights



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