This paper examines how Arne Næss's engagement with psychoanalysis shaped his 'philosophy of life' or 'ecosophy'. It identifies three intersections: his exploration of philosophical scepticism as a psychotherapeutic tool, his critical view of psychoanalysis's scientific status, and his interest in a 'Spinozistic psychoanalysis'. While Næss valued certain psychoanalytic ideas, he placed them within a broader, pluralistic philosophical framework, challenging absolutist epistemological claims. The paper also considers how Næss's emphasis on scepticism as a philosophical and therapeutic stance contributes to psychoanalytic theory.
A historical account traces the development of 'contemplative psychotherapy' in the United States, centered on psychoanalyst Edward Podvoll and the intellectual milieu at Naropa University in the 1970s and 1980s. The paper situates Podvoll's work within the broader dialogue between Buddhism and Western psychotherapy, highlighting how his contributions illuminate this complex encounter. It outlines Podvoll's psychiatric background, the establishment of contemplative psychotherapy at Naropa, and the creation of the Windhorse community therapy model, contextualizing his dialogues with figures such as Chögyam Trungpa, Erik Erikson, Manfred Bleuler, and Oliver Sacks.