Bion's theories of thinking and containment offer a lens in which to view aspects of experience beyond the consulting room. Duncan Cartwright has made an original contribution influenced by Bion's theory, in which he develops notions of pseudo and proto containment. These and the concept “Beta-mentality” will guide a reading of The Matrix (1999) to help understand the film thematically and aesthetically. Implications of computer-generated “virtual reality” for psychoanalysis and film will also be considered. Screening of the film will be followed by a discussion of Cartwright’s work, in preparation for his visiting professorship at PINC.
- Participants will be able to explain how Bion’s theories of thinking and containment comprise both nonpsychotic and psychotic dimensions.
- Participants will be able to critique how Duncan Cartwright analogies “pseudo-containment” to virtual reality as a possibly pathogenic simulation of ordinary experience.
- Participants will be able to analyze how Duncan Cartwright applies “Beta-Mentality” and Bion’s “Bizarre Objects” to understand The Matrix.
The Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California (PINC), an International Psychoanalytical Association, was established in 1989 as a center for comparative psychoanalytic inquiry, research, and training. PINC provides professionals from all mental health disciplines the opportunity to study the full scope of psychoanalytic theory and practice. For information regarding training or referral for analysis, call (415) 288-4050 or visit www.pincsf.org.
This workshop is open to clinicians with moderate to extensive experience in clinical work with some background in the principles of psychoanalytic approaches.
Enrollees who cancel at least SEVEN DAYS prior to the event date will receive a refund minus a $35 administrative charge. No refunds will be allowed after this time.
For program related questions contact Karisa Barrow, Psy.D. at (415) 640-0134 or karisa@drkarisabarrow.com.
For questions related to enrollment, locations, CE credit, special needs, course availability and other administrative issues contact Michele McGuinness by email or 415-496-9949.