Sexuation in Jung and Lacan
Sean McGrath
International Journal of Jungian Studies March 1, 2010 DOI: 10.1080/19409050903498311 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 3 |
| Key points | Argues that Jung's concept of the coniunctio is challenged by Lacanian theory of sexuation, and that meeting this challenge would improve Jung's theory and align it more closely with its Western esoteric, alchemical sources. |
Abstract
In the following article I first situate Lacan and Jung in the broader history of the unconscious: Western esotericism and Romanticism. This contextualization is necessary for the subsequent construction of a Jungian reading of Lacan's theory of sexuation. I will underscore one commonality between Jung and Lacan, and make evident the specific challenge Lacanian theory presents to Jung's notion ofconiunctio. In conclusion I will suggest that Jung's theory will not only be improved by meeting the Lacanian challenge to a naïve notion ofconiunctio; it will ultimately be brought into clearer alignment with its Western esoteric (alchemical) sources.