Why Sigmund Freud is making a comeback in the age of authoritarianism and AI

2026-02-13 · Source: Artificial intelligence (AI) – The Conversation · Field: Science & Research — Social Sciences & Behavioral Studies, Health & Medical Research · Depth: Intermediate, medium

Summary

Psychoanalysis, the intellectual movement and therapeutic practice founded by Sigmund Freud in 1900, is experiencing a significant global resurgence, particularly evident in its growing online following and media attention. This revival is notable given its marginalization in English-speaking scientific circles over the past half-century due to the rise of behavioral psychology and the pharmaceutical industry. However, psychoanalysis has consistently flourished in other regions, such as South America, since Freud's lifetime. Its enduring popularity is attributed to historical factors like the Jewish diaspora before the Holocaust, which culturally reshaped cities receiving refugee psychoanalysts, and its utility during periods of authoritarianism and political crisis. Contemporary figures like neuropsychoanalyst Mark Solms are linking Freudian theory to neuroscience, while others emphasize its political relevance in understanding modern societal issues.

Key takeaway

For mental health professionals and individuals seeking deeper understanding of psychological distress, this resurgence highlights psychoanalysis as a robust framework. It offers tools to navigate collective trauma and authoritarian impulses, challenging quick-fix solutions by emphasizing sustained attention to human complexity. You should consider its principles for understanding societal neuroses and individual suffering beyond superficial symptoms.

Key insights

Psychoanalysis is resurging globally, offering frameworks to understand trauma, authoritarianism, and human complexity amidst political crises.

Principles

• Psychoanalysis thrives during political upheaval.
• Long-form therapy offers long-term curative effects.
• Societies themselves can be neurotic.

Method

Psychoanalysis involves exploring dreams, parapraxes (Freudian slips), and jokes to uncover unconscious conflicts and repressed desires, aiming for better adjustment to reality.

In practice

• Consider psychoanalysis for long-term mental healing.
• Examine dreams for wish fulfillments.
• Analyze slips of the tongue for unconscious thoughts.

Topics

• Psychoanalysis Resurgence
• Freudian Psychoanalysis
• Political Resistance
• Psychological Trauma
• Neuropsychoanalysis

Best for: Research Scientist, Domain Expert, General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Artificial intelligence (AI) – The Conversation.