Notes on neoliberalisms and psychoanalysis

Abstract

This paper attempts to demonstrate the inextricability of the sociopolitical from the clinical practice of working with patients, by presenting a brief vignette of a session that took place immediately after I listened to a news broadcast. Because I view psychoanalytic theory and practice as inseparable from sociopolitical reality, I propose that psychoanalysis is an approach to living that is grounded in culture and values. I argue that by espousing a view of psychoanalysis as truth, we inadvertently contribute to naturalizing neoliberalism. I also attempt to broaden our view of neoliberal subjectivities.