Introduction: The Science of Everyday Life

Abstract

This chapter argues that Freud’s theories and practices can help us live better lives by applying the scientific method to everyday life. Although Freud resisted giving advice, and he focused on abnormal psychology, my goal is to show that we can take his ideas and apply them to how we understand our selves and the world around us in the twenty-first century. Not only can we live more rational and satisfying lives, but we can also overcome many of our political and social problems if we understand how reason, emotions, desires, and the unconscious work.