ABSTRACT

Melanie Klein is one of the few analysts whose body of work has inspired sociologists, philosophers, religious scholars, literary critics and political theorists, all attracted to the cross-fertilisation of her ideas. Other Banalities represents a long over-due exploration of her legacy, including contributions from acclaimed interdisciplinary scholars and practitioners.

The contributors situate Klein within the history of the psychoanalytic movement, investigate her key theoretical and clinical advances, and look at how her thought has informed contemporary perspectives in the behavioural sciences and humanities. Topics covered range from Klein’s major psychological theories to clinical pathology, child development, philosophy, sociology, politics, religion, ethics and aesthetics.

This volume reflects the auspicious future for Kleinian revivalism and demonstrates the broad relevance of Kleinian thought. It will be of great interest to scholars and practitioners of psychology, psychoanalysis and psychotherapy.

chapter |7 pages

Introduction

chapter |17 pages

Who wants to be a scientist?

The historical and psychoanalytic context at the start of Klein's career: circa 1918–1921

chapter |27 pages

Hegel on projective identification

Implications for Klein, Bion, and beyond