As I reflect on class, one question raised keeps coming to the forefront of my thoughts: is it fair to judge a person's views based on our modern values rather than the values of the writer's time?
Answer: no. But I'm going to do it, anyway. Why? Because we're looking for something universal, something that can apply to any time period and EVERY time period. And Freud... was dead wrong.
Perhaps it was "brilliant" psychology in his time. But the man was a quack. Just from the short reading, it is painfully apparent that under Freud's definitions, EVERYONE HAS A MENTAL ILLNESS, thus ensuring he always has work. It's utter garbage.
There is absolutely nothing of value in Freud. Look at all of the "pop psychology" of dream interpretation he's inspired! "Pop psychology" is to Psychology what "pop music" is to music: a shallow performance meant to make the listener feel good without imparting any positive value. I prefer to think of both as poison for the mind.
Perhaps Freud's biggest crime is the plague he has unleashed upon our society? His crackpot "theories" based on a complete misunderstanding of the psyche. Either way, he contributes no meaningful definition of Art to our discussion, and all I can say is "Thank goodness we're moving on from 'Fraud!'"
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2 comments:
Your condemnation of Freud is too strong. Read, say, his *civilization and its discontents,* and see if you still feel the same way.
I do not like Freud either, but I feel as though he brings up some good points. His idea of modes of time for example I found appealing. Try looking past his psychology, and more at it from a philosophical view..
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