Neuropsychoanalysis
Mark Kinet
September 18, 2023 DOI: 10.4324/9781003394358-5 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that neuropsychoanalysis should not pursue a totalizing theory of everything, but should replace speculative metapsychology with findings on neuroplasticity, attachment, and multiple memory systems. Contends that implicit and emotional memory differ from the declarative memory central to Freud's account, shedding new light on his unresolved problems. |
Abstract
Is neuropsychoanalysis striving for a theory of everything? If not, then what? Neuroscientific reductionism is contrasted with respect for the living I. Neuropsychoanalysis aims to replace mythology and speculative metapsychology. Neuroplasticity lies at the heart of psychotherapy and psychodynamics. Attachment plays a crucial role in neuronal and psychological development. There are several memory systems, each with its own rules and government. The importance of implicit and emotional memory is highlighted. According to Freud, they are distinct from the declarative memory that was supposed to play a significant role in psychotherapy and psychopathology. These new findings shed a different light on some of Freud’s unresolved issues and problems.