Overview

In Psychoanalysis and Catholicism: From Freud to Francis, Adam J. Schneider explores the censored history of psychoanalysis by the Catholic Church, reopening dialogue on key overlapping concepts to address contemporary needs. This book is organized into three parts. First, Schneider explores the historical relationship between psychoanalysis and the Church through key figures such as Sigmund Freud and Pope Pius XII. He then brings into conversation significant theological doctrines and psychoanalytic concepts including censorship/repression, original sin/unconscious desire, and the power of speech as examples of the fruitfulness of this dialogue. Finally, he applies theory and theology to contemporary issues like priestly and psychoanalytic formation and synodality within Lacan’s four discourses. Schneider centers Pope Francis, whose papacy was a pastoral practice which reflected psychoanalytic ethics, as an orienting influence throughout the text. Psychoanalysis and Catholicism will be of interest to readers seeking to understand how psychoanalysis and Catholicism edify one another, and how to apply these insights to clinical settings, seminary formation, and parish life.

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9781032779065

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Reviews

“Schneider has provided a lively and cogent history of relations between psychoanalysis and the Catholic Church. From Pope Pius XII’s critiques of psychoanalysis to later Popes’ more nuanced positions, we find here a wide-ranging discussion of ethics. Schneider argues for a possible reconciliation between psychoanalysis and religion—as both truth-seeking.” Bruce Fink, Lacanian Psychoanalyst and Translator, US “Schneider’s masterful work weaves history, psychoanalysis, and Catholicism. Beginning with early encounters between analysis and the Church, the book turns to address significant themes, such as repression, censorship, and guilt, seen through a Lacanian lens. Lacan and the late Pope Francis emerge as key figures in this surprising exposition. Each chapter is rich with insights into psychoanalytic gems for religious life. This book is a must-read for anyone who would bring depth to their psychology and their faith.” Robert Kugelmann, author of Psychology and Catholicism (2011), US “Much-needed and deeply insightful, Dr. Schneider brings clarity to the historical roots and contemporary context of the dialogue between Psychoanalysis and Catholicism. He identifies the value of ""holding nothing back"" from ourselves - or from God - as a point of intersection that fosters mutual enrichment in the path of spiritual and psychological growth. A must-read for all who seek to integrate freedom, faith, and the unconscious.” Fr. Bryan Duggan, Psy.D., R.Psych., St. Mark's College Adjunct Faculty, Vancouver, Canada

Author Information

Adam J. Schneider, PhD, is a psychologist and supervisor in Washington State, USA. He works for the Department of Corrections and is Adjunct Faculty at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. He has published in Integratus, Psychoanalytische Perspectieven, Psychosis, and the Journal of Medical Humanities.

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