Critical Theory and Psychoanalysis

'This remarkably well-curated book offers us tremendous insight into the horrors of our planet, ranging from authoritarianism and anti-Semitism to racism and colonialism. The esteemed editors and contributors have provided us with much depth-psychological wisdom and have reminded us of the importance of studying the core concepts of critical theory and psychoanalysis. Every politician should read this text!'

Professor Brett Kahr, Senior Fellow, Tavistock Institute of Medical Psychology, London, and Honorary Director of Research, Freud Museum, London

'Comprised of scintillatingly eloquent essays, this volume ranges from philosophically nuanced accounts of the place of psychoanalysis within Critical Theory, penetrating discussions of the concept of transgenerational transmission of trauma and illuminating analyses of the growing propensity towards authoritarianism in certain quarters of the Left, to critical, yet nuanced and judicious, encounters with contemporary critical race theory, whiteness studies, and much more besides. It's essential reading for anyone seriously interested in understanding and appreciating the rich and enduring theoretical legacy of the sophisticated synthesis of Marx and Freud forged by members of the Frankfurt School in the early decades of the previous century, after the moment to "realize philosophy" was missed.'

Samir Gandesha, Professor of Humanities and Director of the Institute for the Humanities, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada

'The papers collected in Critical Theory and Psychoanalysis demonstrate the continuing relevance of the Frankfurt School by applying their synthesis of Marxism and psychoanalysis to show the richness of their confluence; and how key thinkers in the tradition appropriated psychoanalysis in their critical social theory, engagement with Freud, and the social and political issues of the day. These original papers exhibit the vibrancy and timeliness of the Frankfurt School’s appropriation of Freud to key issues of contemporary psychoanalytic and social theory.'

Douglas Kellner, Distinguished Research Professor of Education, UCLA

'As Mills and Burston’s anthology demonstrates, critical theory rests upon the fundamental insights of Marx and Freud and thus the inherent nature of both capitalist exploitation and human aggression. Through what appears to be an ignorance of Marx and a turning away from Freud’s instinct theory, contemporary psychoanalytic activists seem to have little theoretical mooring with which to understand the astounding social and environmental breakdown happening around us... Jon Mills and Daniel Burston have provided us with an invaluable contribution in these most challenging times.'

Psychoanalysis, Culture & Society