Psychoanalysis and Buddhism

Abstract

Since William James, psychology and specifically psychoanalysis has been inching in the direction of incorporating precepts of Buddhism into the main body of psychoanalytic theory. While Freud professed little interest in "Eastern Mysticism," as he thought of it, many of his psychoanalytic concepts match up well with those of Buddhism, particularly when Buddhism is demystified of its esoteric and poetic language. In fact, Buddhism is a powerful psychological system of self awareness which can enhance the practice of psychoanalysis. Increasingly, recent analytic theorists are making room for its insights. This presentation will explore areas of overlap from an analytic vantage point, and examine some recent trends in the on-going integration of the wisdoms of the East into our rational Western tradition. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved). (journal abstract)