Basic Principles of Psychoanalysis: By A. A. Brill. With an introduction by Philip R. Lehrman. (Doubleday & Co., New York. Pp. xv and 298. Price, $3.45.)

Brill's Basic Principles of Psychoanalysis first appeared in 1921. This book, couched in simple terms and taken from material used in lectures to psychologists and educators, represents another of Dr. Brill's indefatigable efforts to arouse interest and spread information about psycho-analysis in ever widening circles. In conception and approach, the work shows the strong influence of Freud's General Introduction to Psychoanalysis which had appeared a short time previously. Chapters on the cathartic method, the symptom, psychopathology of everyday life, wit and dreams comprise the great body of the book and succeed admirably in conveying clearly to lay readers the fundamental ideas of Freud. Cases cited from the vast personal experience of Dr. Brill illustrate, in the earthy and witty way which he made familiar to two generations of students, the meaning and application of psycho-analytic doctrines. In chapters on 'The Only Child' and on 'Fairy Tales and Artistic Productions, ' the author finds the opportunity to record his own personal observations and opinions with regard to the upbringing of children. Finally, in a discussion on 'The Selection of Vocations', there are valuable comments on unconscious factors involved in the choice of a career.

It lends a touching and symbolic note to this work to learn that on the occasion of his departure for the hospital during his last illness, Dr. Brill took the manuscript of the book with him in order to make the final corrections. When it became apparent that the task lay beyond his strength, he requested that it be carried on by his colleague, Dr. Lehrman, who fulfilled this wish and furnished the book with an introduction.