Daemonic Desire Convergences and Contradictions: Loewald and Laplanche.

This paper discusses the oeuvres of two psychoanalytic scholars: Laplanche and Loewald. Each has made significant contributions to psychoanalytic theory and its influence on clinical interactions. Both distinguished analysts have engaged in serious, yet different challenges to Freudian theory. This paper will offer some similarities in their theoretical approaches, but the emphasis is on their special differences. Underscoring their significant departures a clinical example is provided which illuminates their essential distinctions. In this context I am highlighting both their unique views on psychoanalytic theory and its effect on their clinical contributions.