Tradition, Change, Creativity

This book explores the impact of German and Austrian psychoanalysts' emigration to London, focusing on the British Psycho-Analytical Society's discussions and their lasting effects.

This volume serves as a companion to Tradition, Change, Creativity, continuing the exploration initiated in the previous work, It is a New Kind of Diaspora. It delves into the repercussions of German and Austrian psychoanalysts' migration to London, especially within the framework of the British Psycho-Analytical Society's 'Controversial Discussions'. Through a thorough analysis of archival materials, the book illuminates how these discussions influenced the evolution of psychoanalysis in Britain.

The first section, titled 'Tradition and Change', addresses broad themes related to the Discussions, providing insights drawn from various documentary sources kept in the British Psycho-Analytical Society's archives. It sets the stage for understanding the significant shifts in psychoanalytic thought brought about by these émigrés. The second section narrows its focus to a pivotal aspect of the Discussions: the differing interpretations concerning the psychic life of infants during their first six months. Dr. Steiner emphasizes the importance of considering the wider social and political contexts that shape psychoanalytic practice and theory throughout this analysis.

In the concluding part, the book reflects on the lasting impact of these Discussions through the lens of Hanna Segal, a prominent Kleinian analyst. Her contributions to the fields of creativity and aesthetics are examined, showcasing how the legacy of the 'Controversial Discussions' continues to resonate in contemporary psychoanalytic discourse. Overall, Tradition, Change, Creativity offers a nuanced understanding of the interplay between migration, psychoanalysis, and cultural transformation.