El Seminario de Jacques Lacan: El reverso del psicoanálisis (Libro XVII)

What is 'The Seminar of Jacques Lacan: The Other Side of Psychoanalysis (Book XVII)'?

This volume collects the lectures given by Jacques Lacan between 1969 and 1970, a period marked by social and political unrest. In it, Lacan develops his theory of the four discourses —those of the master, the university, the hysteric, and the analyst— as tools to understand the structures of the social bond. Far from being a simple transcription, the seminar reflects the lively dialogue between the psychoanalyst and his audience, including interventions from figures such as the students of Vincennes. It is a dense but essential work for those wishing to understand Lacanian thought in its maturity.

Importance and historical context

Seminar XVII is set at the climax of the student movements of May 68. Lacan not only analyzes social malaise from a psychoanalytic perspective but also directly responds to the revolutionaries with his famous phrase: «You all want a new master, and you will have one!» This seminar is crucial because it marks a turning point in his teaching, moving away from linguistics to focus on power relations. Readers agree that it is one of his most political and relevant works.

Lacan's four discourses

In this seminar, Lacan formalizes four discourses that describe fundamental social ties:
Master's discourse: bases authority on repression.
University discourse: hides power behind knowledge.
Hysteric's discourse: questions the master from dissatisfaction.
Analyst's discourse: allows for unmasking desire. Each discourse is represented by a mathematical formula that shows the positions of the agent, the other, the production, and the truth. This structure offers a new way of understanding clinical practice and politics.

What makes this seminar unique?

Unlike other seminars, the XVII includes a visit from students from the University of Vincennes, leading to a polemical exchange. Lacan presents his thought more directly and accessibly, though without losing complexity. Readers value the depth of the ideas and the brilliance of the reasoning, although they warn that it is not light reading. The paperback edition, translated by Russell Grigg, is considered one of the best English versions.

Intended audience

This book is intended for psychoanalytic students, psychologists, philosophers, and anyone interested in critical theory. It requires some familiarity with Lacan's work, but it can also be approached by readers with basic knowledge who wish to delve into his thought. It is not a self-help manual, but a theoretical work that invites reflection on the subject and the social bond.

Readers' opinions

Those who have read the seminar highlight its relevance and the sharpness of Lacan's ideas. Many consider it one of his most important seminars, especially due to the historical context and the formulation of the discourses. They appreciate the clarity of Russell Grigg's translation and the quality of the edition. However, they agree that it is a complex work that requires dedication. In general, it is an essential read for followers of Lacanian psychoanalysis.

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