The Freud Encyclopedia: Theory, Therapy, and Culture
Edited by Edwin Erwin. New York: Routledge, 2002. 0-415-93677-2; 2001048448. $165.
Long discredited by the very field he founded, Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) remains a cultural icon of incredible influence. Freud's revolutionary thinking on the human mind, identity and dreams has excited passions and galvanized debates ever since their introduction in late 19th-century Vienna.
Beginning with detailed studies of hysteria and moving on to sexuality and dreams, Freud gradually formulated a theory of psychoanalysis, a "talking cure," that by the first decades of the 20th century was attracting fervent support and equally virulent criticism. As psychologists and others attacked and debunked specific ideas, Freud's work and methods found wider, longer lasting audiences in film, philosophy, anthropology and literature. Therefore it is highly appropriate that a professor of philosophy should have steered the creation of this detailed, scholarly guide to Freud's life and work.
More than 200 Freudian scholars participated, and their 248 contributions describe Freud's family, friends, associates, patients, disciples and critics. Other articles detail Freud's opinions on the unconsciousness, ego, envy, repression and taboos. The development of his theories of conflicts, drive, seduction and slips are explored, as well as subsequent developments that build on his work, from object relations to toilet training. Excellent summaries of Freud's ideas and the criticisms of his work are featured in discussions of scientific tests of Freud's theories and many other articles. Twenty-five entries document the development of psychoanalysis in various regions of the world, and articles on its relationship to feminism, biology, biography, pseudo-science, religion and postmodernism demonstrate Freud's continuing influence. A detailed index tracks not only Freud's opinions on various topics, but also those of his opponents and supporters. Finally, the consistent effort to identify critical English-language editions for the sources cited helps make this volume an outstanding guide for students. Highly recommended for academic libraries. --JL