Casey Schwartz on the Intriguing World of Neuropsychoanalysis
Neuroscience, the perspective, is so different...there's such a difference in culture and in personality type between the two disciplines, like who wants to become a psychoanalyst is a very, very different temperament than who wants to become a neuroscientist.
Have you ever pondered the mysteries of your own mind? In this thought-provoking episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer sits down with Casey Schwartz to dive into the fascinating field of neuropsychoanalysis. Casey, a graduate of Brown University with a Master's in psychodynamic neuroscience from University College London, brings her extensive knowledge and unique perspective to the table.
She's written for major publications like Newsweek and The New York Times, and her book 'In the Mind Fields' explores the intersection of neuroscience and psychoanalysis. Eric and Casey discuss the essence of neuropsychoanalysis, a discipline that bridges the gap between the scientific study of the brain and the more abstract world of psychoanalysis. They explore how our unconscious mind influences our decisions and behaviors, often without us even realizing it.
Casey emphasizes the importance of recognizing this unconscious influence, suggesting that it can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our mental health. One particularly engaging part of their conversation revolves around the concept of 'transference'—a term coined by Freud that describes how feelings toward one person can be unconsciously redirected to another. Casey explains how modern neuroscience is mapping these complex emotional processes in the brain, offering new insights into human behavior.
The episode also delves into the idea that we are more than just a collection of chemicals and neurons. Casey argues for a holistic approach to understanding the human mind, one that honors the mystery and complexity of human life. She cautions against reductionism—the tendency to oversimplify complex phenomena—and highlights the value of embracing uncertainty. This, she believes, can be liberating and help us navigate life's complexities more effectively.
Throughout their discussion, Eric and Casey offer practical wisdom on how to feed your 'good wolf'—the part of you that thrives on kindness, bravery, and love. Whether you're fascinated by the science of the mind or simply looking for ways to improve your mental well-being, this episode provides plenty of food for thought.