Spontaneity A Psychoanalytic Inquiry [Paperback]

Psychoanalytic theory frequently explains psychopathology from the perspective of either inadequate early care or as the result of environmental factors. In this book the author suggests that poor mental health can be a result of our incapacity to respond to internal and external stimuli, and indicates that spontaneity is essential in the development of many aspects of the self.

It is not what happens to us, but how we react to events, that forms who we are. Spontaneitypresents an original approach to issues of agency, spontaneity and creativity in psychoanalysis by exploring questions including:

• active internalisation
• paradox
• forgiveness
• responsibility
• empathy
• self de-creation.

This book will be essential reading for psychoanalysts, psychotherapists, philosophers and psychologists. It will also prove to be engaging for those interested in psychoanalytic theory and theories of subjectivity.

Introductory Remarks. Rethinking Internalization. The Function of Paradox. Subjective Agency  And Passivity. The Problem of Entitlement. Actions and Reactions. The Question of Forgiveness. The Quest for Responsibility. Empathy and Sympathy. Self Formation and Self-Decreation.

Whether on philosophy, psychoanalysis, or just the process of living, whatever Gemma Corradi Fiumara writes is fresh and insightful, and this new book is no exception.  - Janet Martin Soskice, University of Cambridge, UK

Rarely does a book tackle essential problems in such a fascinating and convincing way. It deals with that very special human quality-spontaneity-which ultimately sustains all creative processes. It also explores the defensive manoeuvres that oppose spontaneity. lC=