From Shadows to Spotlight: The Journey of Psychoanalysis in East Germany

The city of Dresden is gearing up for a big event. The European Psychoanalytical Federation (EPF) is about to hold a conference there. This is a great chance to look back at how psychoanalysis has evolved in East Germany, with a special focus on the state of Saxony. The story of psychoanalysis in this region is a rollercoaster. It started strong between 1923 and 1933. Therese Benedek was a key figure during this time. Her clinical and scientific work was groundbreaking. But then, the Nazis took control. This dark period put a sudden stop to the progress. Things didn't get better after World War II. The communist regime didn't allow psychoanalysis to thrive again. This shows that psychoanalysis needs freedom to grow. It can't survive in places where people can't express their thoughts freely. Today, psychoanalysis is slowly recovering from the setbacks caused by two German dictatorships. But there's a new challenge. Anti-liberal and intolerant political movements are on the rise. These movements threaten liberal democracy in Europe and other parts of the free world. It's a reminder that the fight for freedom of thought is ongoing. Psychoanalysts are at the forefront of this battle. They are working hard to ensure that psychoanalysis continues to flourish. The history of psychoanalysis in East Germany is a tale of resilience. It's a story of how ideas can survive even in the darkest times. It's also a call to action. We must protect the freedom of thought. We must stand up against intolerance and anti-liberal movements. The future of psychoanalysis depends on it. The upcoming conference in Dresden is more than just an event. It's a chance to reflect on the past. It's an opportunity to learn from history. And it's a reminder that the fight for freedom of thought is never-ending.