Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson

Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson

Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson is an American author and former psychoanalyst. Born on March 28, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, Masson has had a diverse and controversial career, spanning from his early work in psychoanalysis to his later focus on animal rights and the emotional lives of animals. He is perhaps best known for his criticisms of Sigmund Freud and the psychoanalytic establishment, as well as for his books on the inner lives of animals.

Early Life and Education

Jeffrey Masson was born to a family of Jewish immigrants. His father, a New Zealander, and his mother, from the United States, were both involved in the arts. Masson showed an early interest in literature and philosophy, which led him to pursue an undergraduate degree in Sanskrit and a doctorate in Sanskrit literature from Harvard University. His academic journey reflected his diverse interests, including studies in psychoanalysis.

Career

Psychoanalysis

Masson's career in psychoanalysis began after he received his Ph.D., leading him to become a projects director of the Sigmund Freud Archives. However, his tenure was marked by controversy. In the early 1980s, Masson was dismissed from his position after he criticized Freud's abandonment of the seduction theory, which posited that the neuroses of adults were the result of childhood sexual abuse. Masson argued that Freud had sacrificed truth for social acceptance and professional advancement, a stance that led to his estrangement from the psychoanalytic community.

Writing

After leaving the world of psychoanalysis, Masson turned to writing. He has authored several books, with topics ranging from psychoanalytic theory to the emotional lives of animals. His most notable works include The Assault on Truth: Freud's Suppression of the Seduction Theory and When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives of Animals, co-authored with Susan McCarthy. His writings have sparked discussions in both the psychoanalytic field and among animal rights activists, making him a polarizing figure in both arenas.

Controversies

Masson's career has been marked by legal and academic controversies. His dismissal from the Freud Archives led to a prolonged legal battle with the Archives and Anna Freud, culminating in a libel suit against writer Janet Malcolm and The New Yorker magazine. The case, which revolved around the accuracy of quotes attributed to Masson, eventually reached the United States Supreme Court. Although the Court ruled in favor of Malcolm, the case raised significant questions about journalistic ethics and the nature of psychoanalytic history.

Personal Life

Masson has lived in several countries throughout his life, including Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. His personal experiences and academic interests have significantly influenced his writings, particularly his focus on the emotional lives of animals and his critique of psychoanalysis.

Legacy

Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson's work has had a lasting impact on both psychoanalysis and animal rights. His critique of Freud and psychoanalytic theory challenged the foundations of psychoanalysis, sparking debates that continue to this day. Similarly, his writings on animals have contributed to a broader understanding of animal emotions and have supported the case for animal rights.