Pornography, Paparazzi, and Rooting for Duke - January 24

As a comprehensive theory of the mind, psychoanalysis should be able to illuminate a wide range of human experiences. The purpose of this course is to draw on psychoanalytic ideas to address important everyday experiences that usually fall outside the purview of psychoanalytic theorists. We will aim to articulate precise answers, in jargon-free language, to such deceptively complex questions as these: Why do sports fans become exuberant when their teams win and despondent when they lose? Why are fantasy sports leagues so popular? What drives celebrity worship? Why are so many people drawn to pornography? What is the relationship between sexual fantasy, pornography, and sex crimes? How can we make sense of road rage? In grappling to find answers to these questions, we will also seek to enhance our understanding of our patients and the particular interests that absorb them. Readings will include: Letters to Penthouse; True Believers: The Tragic Inner Life of Sports Fans; The Sexual Life of Katherine M.; Heinz Kohut and Robert Stoller.

Thursdays: January 24, 31, February 7, 14, 21, March 6, 2008

7:30-9:00 p.m., Six Sessions, Fee: $150

9.0 CME and CE Credit Hours

Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute
204 East Washington
Ann Arbor

For information or to register for class, call Monica Simmons at (248) 851-3380.
Please make check payable to MPI
Mail payment to: MPI, Attn: Monica, 32841 Middlebelt Road, Suite 411, Farmington Hills, MI 48334

The Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute is accredited by the Michigan State Medical Society Committee on CME Accreditation to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™ (1 credit equals 1 hour). Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This program is approved by the Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative for 9.0 CE Hours.
Course approval #100907-02