Lecture at Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus

The Function of the Father

Thomas Svolos, MD will present on Jacques Lacan’s central theoretical concept, “The Name of the Father” in relationship to the current scientific advances in reproductive technology. These scientific advances have opened the path to a scope of possibilities for human conception as well as the acceptance of new social arrangements for families and the raising of children. The Lacan psychoanalytic community has strived to remain current with this 21st century technology. Today’s presentation will attempt to interpret the question of “Where does that leave the place of the Father today?” The Name of the Father, also called the “Paternal Metaphor” is whoever holds the “function” of the Father figure and who typically introduces the child into society. How does the use of this concept as it relates to understanding paternity, different family constellations, and artificial reproductive technology shapes today’s society? Who will take the place of the Father today? What effects have these scientific and technological advances produce in our society? In many discourses today, the place of authority--in particular, that of the Father--is a theme of significant debate as exemplified by the social and religious and political debates of our era. This is no less true in psychoanalysis--a practice which Sigmund Freud founded on the centrality and universality of the Oedipus complex. Lacan described the Father of this complex more as a “function.” That is, “something we can do without, but on the condition that we make use of it.” So, how do we make use of the concept of a Father in psychoanalysis today? Psychoanalysts today are faced with these dilemmas in their clinical practice.

OBJECTIVES:
1. Clinicians will learn about the application of Lacanian theory as it pertains to the concept of the Father.
2. Clinicians will gain a greater understanding of Lacanian theory as it relates to these scientific reproductive phenomena.
3. Clinicians will discuss the value of applying Lacanian theory in their clinical practice.



Sponsored by the Master’s Programs in Psychology
Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus
2173 NW 99 Avenue
Doral, FL 33172
When: Thursday May 3, 2012 Time: 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Where: Multi-Purpose Room

2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be provided for licensed professionals
Featured Speaker:

Thomas Svolos, MD is a psychoanalyst and psychiatrist practicing in Omaha, Nebraska. He is a member of the World Association of Psychoanalysis and the New Lacanian School. He also serves on the Council of Lacanian Compass. Dr. Svolos is an Adjunct Professor and Acting Chair of Psychiatry at the Creighton University School of Medicine. He has published numerous articles, his work has appeared in nine languages, and he has co-authored and co-edited Lacan and Addiction, published in 2011 by Karnac Books.

To RSVP for this complimentary event, contact Jose Olivera at 305-593-1223 ext. 207 or Monica Estopinan at ext. 130.

Carlos Albizu University is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling (Provider # BAP-388 Exp. 3/2013), and the American Psychological Association to provide continuing education. CAU maintains responsibility for the program.