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The author of this work has set himself the by no means inconsiderable task of discovering and testing the theoretical foundations of psycho-analysis. He writes as follows: 'In this book we shall not concern ourselves with Freud's views, the content of which is psychological, which are based on his own intuitions and in which his great scientific importance lies. Our task will be to set forth and pass judgement upon the theoretical principles of his scientific work' (p. 6). He goes on to explain the point of view from which he undertakes this task: 'The examination which this book contains is based on the conception, developed by Professor Häberlin in Der Gegenstand der Psychologie, of the principles of all empirical science' (p. 7).
The author goes on to say: 'Thus we shall encounter him (Freud) on a field—namely, that of scientific theory—where his strength does not lie. Inadequacies, inconsistencies and gaps in Freud's fundamental scientific positions will force us to attack them again and again'.
It is well known that psycho-analysis was evolved from the direct observation of mental operations and gradually created its terminology and the body of its theoretical concepts as the need arose. We know, too, that psycho-analysis is prepared to abandon these or substitute better if necessary. Now it is certainly very interesting for anyone versed in philosophy to apply his logical and speculative training in testing the psycho-analytical body of doctrine. But he must not forget in doing so that what appears to be laid down with certainty in Freud's theoretical propositions is really of the nature of working hypotheses to be used only so long as nothing better is found to replace them.
Schohaus takes as his starting-point the principles of an 'empirical science' as laid down by Professor Häberlin; but in the present work these principles are not handled with sufficient clearness and thoroughness to yield any fruitful notions.
The author deals with certain points