Discussion

This symposium has focused on the usefulness of Dr. Brenner's theory of intrapsychic conflict and compromise formation in clinical work. A few words are in order about the general role of theory in psychoanalysis. A good exposition is given in the paper “The Function of Theory in Psychoanalysis” by Hartmann, Kris, and Loewenstein (1953). The year 1953 is also a significant date in regard to Dr. Brenner's work. Hartmann et al. say:

Psychoanalytic theory cannot be reduced to a mere array of individual observations. Nor does psychoanalytic theory represent a structure of thought superimposed upon the empirical material that would have precedence. As opposed to this view, theory directs us towards intelligent questioning and fruitful investigation. What Kurt Lewin formulated for psychology in general, also applies to psychoanalysis: that the investigator must know that every step of his progress depends on his advances in the sphere of theory and on the conceptual consistency, breadth and depth reached therein [p. 119].

The latter is a succinct description of Dr. Brenner's formulations and conceptualizations.

Hartmann et al. continue:

In psychoanalysis more than in other fields of science, observational data and theoretical assumptions are intimately interwoven. To put it in a nutshell: not even the simplest clinical observation in psychoanalysis would be meaningful without assuming the existence of dynamic, reactive unconscious processes, processes which cannot be observed but merely inferred. Thus, the everyday tools of all analysts, whatever their insight into or evaluation of theory, include the necessity not only of

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descriptive but also of explanatory concepts. Every psychoanalytic case report, however factual, is replete with inference based upon theoretical assumptions [p. 119].

Einstein said that theories are free creations of the imagination limited by two principles: An empirical one that the conclusions drawn from the theory must be confirmed by experience and t