The Father of Psychoanalysis Article

Although not an instant bestseller (it later became one), what did Freud’s ‘The Interpretation of Dreams’ do for society?

His work swept away old views of how the mind works and brought new insights into mental illness.
What was his basic idea about dreams?
That nothing is accidental. Everything has a meaning.

How did the Victorian society in which he lived influence the development of his theories?
The Victorian period was waning, sex was back in vogue.

How did the events of WW1 influence his theories?
WWI put a focus on aggression. It allowed him to analyze history, religion and art, morality and politics.
In what way(s) was Freud androcentric (focus on male development)?
In the 1970s, Freud came up with an idea such as his theory that women are destined to be unhappy because they lack the physical apparatus of males. (Penis-envy)

How were Freud’s theories later seen as beneficial to women?
Most of Freud theories may focus on men, however, he was the first one to talk about the sexuality of women. He didn’t fully understand it but he acknowledged it.

Write a personal reflection on this article.
Some ideas:
- How do you feel about Freud?
Freud analysis common sense; I believe his drug addiction caused his mind to act this way. His theories are interesting but can not be scientifically proved. Freud is someone I can turn to when I need an answer to a random question.
- Do you agree or disagree with him/his theories?
I agree with some of his theories. One man cannot analyze a whole population.
- How important was he on the development of psychology?
I find it important because he brings human closer together. Few people tend to study one self, but Freud opened and introduced this theory.