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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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How to Read Lacan summary
Slavoj Žižek
Explore the Foundations of Lacan’s Thought
9 mins
Brief summary
How to Read Lacan by Slavoj Žižek sheds light on the complex theories of Jacques Lacan, the influential psychoanalyst. It offers readers a clear and accessible introduction to Lacanian psychoanalysis and its relevance in the modern world.
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How to Read Lacan
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The enigma of our inner psyche
The intricate world of the unconscious isn't just about dreams and desires, it also holds beliefs and paradoxes that shape our lives. One such belief, deeply embedded within, functions through the mechanisms of disavowal, a term from Lacanian theory that describes how we might reject a reality that's too difficult to face. For example, a person might intellectually deny the existence of God, yet unconsciously adhere to moral codes that suggest otherwise. This isn't about hypocrisy – it's about an inner conflict where one part of the psyche hasn't acknowledged what another part knows to be true.
Disavowal is closely related to Lacan's concept of perversion, where someone symbolically rejects or “castrates” a part of their reality, yet finds ways to engage with it indirectly. It's a defense mechanism that allows us to navigate the anxiety of acknowledging truths that threaten our self-concept.
Displacement is another defense, where the mind redirects emotions from their original source to something less intimidating. Instead of dealing with the anxiety of a “castrated” belief directly, the emotion might surface in unrelated areas of life.
This intricate dance of denial and indirect engagement leads us to a paradoxical realization: some people, embracing a godless world, anticipate absolute freedom. Yet, paradoxically, their unconscious may not concur. It's not the desires that are being suppressed – it's the prohibitions. The notion arises that, in the absence of God, everything becomes forbidden rather than everything being permitted. The lack of a divine watchman doesn't liberate but rather ensnares them in invisible restraints.
Let's take a simpler example. Remember those times in childhood when parents gave you a choice that wasn’t a true choice? Imagine a child told by their parents, "You know your grandma loves you, but visit her only if you want to." While it seems like the child has a choice, there's an underlying pressure to make the “right” choice out of free will. Such false freedom is more oppressive than a direct order, as it takes away even the freedom to rebel. Similarly, in our conscious rejection or acceptance of certain beliefs, our unconscious mind might still be setting its own rules, sometimes even stricter ones.
So, as we tread through our daily lives, holding beliefs and making choices, it's essential to understand that beneath the surface, our unconscious is constantly shaping, shifting, and often contradicting our conscious decisions.
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What is How to Read Lacan about?
How to Read Lacan (2007) offers a deep dive into the perplexing landscape of our inner psyche through the lens of twentieth-century psychoanalyst and psychiatrist Jacques Lacan. It unravels the mysteries of unconscious beliefs, from the paradoxes of atheism to the rituals that mask genuine feelings. It leads us through an eye-opening journey, challenging our perceptions, and uncovering the unseen forces shaping our daily lives.
How to Read Lacan Review
How to Read Lacan (2007) by Slavoj Žižek is an insightful exploration of the influential psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan's work and its relevance in today's society. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- With its accessible explanations and examples, it offers a comprehensive understanding of Lacanian theory.
- It challenges conventional interpretations and encourages critical thinking, providing fresh insights into the complexities of the human psyche.
- The book's provocative analysis delves into the intersections of philosophy, psychology, and cultural theory, keeping readers engaged and intellectually stimulated.
Who should read How to Read Lacan?
- Philosophy lovers seeking deeper understanding
- Students of psychological and behavioral sciences
- Enthusiasts of introspection and self-exploration
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How to Read Lacan FAQs
What is the main message of How to Read Lacan?
How to Read Lacan teaches us to understand the complex ideas of Lacan and apply them to our own lives.
How long does it take to read How to Read Lacan?
The estimated reading time for How to Read Lacan is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is How to Read Lacan a good book? Is it worth reading?
How to Read Lacan is worth reading for those interested in psychology. It offers insights into Lacan's theories in a concise and accessible way.
Who is the author of How to Read Lacan?
How to Read Lacan was written by Slavoj Žižek.
What to read after How to Read Lacan?
If you're wondering what to read next after How to Read Lacan, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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