The Triumph of the Therapeutic by Philip Rieff
- 1. In 'The Triumph of the Therapeutic: Uses of Faith after Freud', Philip Rieff presents a critical examination of modern culture's psychological landscape, arguing that contemporary society is characterized by a relentless pursuit of personal fulfillment and emotional well-being, often at the expense of deeper moral and spiritual values. Rieff delves into the implications of psychotherapy as it transforms from a therapeutic practice into a dominant cultural narrative, suggesting that the therapeutic ethos replaces traditional religious frameworks and moral systems with a focus on self-actualization and personal happiness. He contends that this shift represents a cultural triumph of therapeutic ideals, where individuals seek validation and meaning through psychological means rather than through faith, community, or transcendence. Throughout the work, Rieff articulates the tensions between the therapeutic demands of individualism and the communal aspects of society, raising questions about the sustainability of a culture that prioritizes subjective well-being over collective principles and shared beliefs. By analyzing figures such as Freud and the role of psychoanalysis, Rieff critiques how the therapeutic model reshapes our understanding of identity, morality, and human relationships, ultimately suggesting that while the therapeutic approach offers solutions for personal distress, it simultaneously undermines the foundational narratives that have historically provided structure and meaning to human existence.
According to Rieff, what has replaced the concept of salvation in therapeutic culture?
A) Personal well-being and fulfillment
B) Scientific discovery
C) Political power
D) Wealth accumulation
- 2. What does Rieff mean by 'remissive' culture?
A) Culture focused on economic growth
B) Culture that emphasizes political freedom
C) Culture based on strict religious rules
D) Culture that releases individuals from moral demands
- 3. How does therapeutic culture approach guilt, according to Rieff?
A) As a necessary moral guide
B) As a biological instinct
C) As a psychological problem to be eliminated
D) As a political tool
- 4. How does Rieff characterize the relationship between therapy and community?
A) Therapy undermines communal bonds and shared values
B) Therapy has no effect on community
C) Therapy creates new forms of community
D) Therapy strengthens community ties
- 5. According to Rieff, what has replaced the priest in therapeutic culture?
A) The scientist
B) The entrepreneur
C) The politician
D) The therapist
- 6. What is Rieff's view of the therapeutic concept of 'authenticity'?
A) It is the highest moral virtue
B) It is scientifically measurable
C) It represents a shallow form of self-expression
D) It has no cultural significance
- 7. How does therapeutic culture view human limitations, according to Rieff?
A) As political constructions
B) As psychological problems to be solved
C) As essential aspects of human nature
D) As divine punishments
- 8. What is Rieff's attitude toward the therapeutic sensibility he describes?
A) Indifferent and uninterested
B) Enthusiastically supportive
C) Critical and concerned
D) Completely neutral
- 9. According to Rieff, what becomes the highest good in therapeutic culture?
A) Moral virtue
B) Personal psychological well-being
C) Political power
D) Economic success
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