There is an increasing tendency among analysts to think in concrete psychodynamic terms rather than in abstractions. Freud's original biological orientation is again emphasized in the present-day interest in physiological considerations. A realistic conception of the functioning of the personality in his social setting is attempted. Finally, the author mentions the tendency of psychoanalysts to investigate and experiment in the field of therapy on the assumption that more flexible use of psychoanalysis as a therapeutic instrument is desirable.