Lacan and Addiction

'For those for whom Lacan is a purely philosophical writer (and an obscure one at that) this exciting collection will be a revelation. The relation it establishes between abstract Lacanian concepts and concrete clinical life-problems (in this case addiction) enhances our understanding in both directions and gives a vivid sense of Lacan's thought as a diagnostic instrument.'- Fredric Jameson, Duke University, USA'This collection of essays by leading Lacanian psychoanalysts and clinicians brings new insight to the understanding and treatment of addiction. The articles here do not only show how fixation, addiction, and substance abuse are to be explained. They also explore, in what is new terrain for psychoanalysts, the increasingly apparent links that eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia have with other forms of addiction. Very relevant to clinicians, these stimulating and provocative essays also have the added interest of addressing the social and cultural place of addiction in contemporary society.'- Russell Grigg, Deakin University, Australia'This carefully prepared compilation is an excellent reference text for clinicians interested in approaching the Lacanian psychoanalytic perspective regarding the treatment of those complaining of "addictions". Unlike other clinical perspectives that treat anyone and everyone with so-called addictions in the same way, the Lacanian approach emphasizes the singularity of each and every speaking being in the way in which the subject may be troubled by their use of some substance. The authors are able to demonstrate, from different angles, how the relationship of a subject with an object (be it drugs, alcohol, or others) may lead to what is called addiction in the mental health field today. It is on the basis of the subject's unique relationship with the substance that a psychoanalytic treatment may develop, as we see demonstrated in the numerous clinical cases and vignettes in this collection.'- Alicia Arenas, member of the World Association of Psychoanalysis