From Criticizing Progress to Psychoanalyzing Critical Theory. An Interview with Amy Allen

Abstract

The importance of psychoanalysis for Critical Theory is unabated, but controversial. Regressive reactions to the crises of capitalism are currently reviving the debate about its relevance for the Frankfurt School. The interview with Amy Allen follows the focus of her book Critique on the Couch (2020) through questions about the significance of psychoanalysis for Critical Theory as well as the implications of her arguments for a theory of the subject and a critique of eurocentric concepts of progress.

Keywords

• psychoanalysis
• critical theory
• frankfurt school
• melanie klein
• institute for social research
• social critique