Wilhelm Fliess

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Wilhelm Fliess (24 October 1858 – 13 October 1928) was a German otolaryngologist who is best known for his controversial theories in the fields of biorythms and the nasal reflex neurosis. His work and theories had a significant influence on the early development of psychoanalysis, largely through his close friendship and collaboration with Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis.

Biography

Wilhelm Fliess was born in Arnswalde, Prussia (now Choszczno, Poland) and pursued his medical studies at the University of Berlin, where he specialized in the field of otolaryngology, particularly focusing on the treatment of nasal problems. Fliess developed a theory that there was a periodicity in the occurrence of fevers and other bodily phenomena, which he linked to biorythms that he believed to control the physical and emotional status of individuals.

Relationship with Sigmund Freud

Fliess's relationship with Sigmund Freud began in the late 1880s, marking the start of a deep friendship and professional collaboration. Freud was fascinated by Fliess's theories, particularly his ideas on the nasal reflex neurosis and the role of sexual organs in neuroses. This collaboration led Freud to explore the sexual origins of neuroses, which became a foundational concept in psychoanalysis. The correspondence between Freud and Fliess is considered one of the most important documentations of the early thoughts and development of psychoanalytic ideas.

Theories

Fliess proposed several controversial theories throughout his career. One of his most notable theories was the concept of biorythms, which suggested that human life is governed by two distinct cycles: a 23-day physical cycle and a 28-day emotional cycle. Fliess believed that understanding and tracking these cycles could help in diagnosing and treating various ailments.

Another significant theory proposed by Fliess was the idea of nasal reflex neurosis. He hypothesized that certain conditions of the nose could have a profound effect on the genital organs and could be the cause of sexual dysfunction and other neuroses. This theory led him to practice surgical interventions on the nose to treat a variety of psychological and physical conditions, a practice that was later discredited and ceased to be a part of mainstream medical procedures.

Legacy

Despite the controversial nature of his theories and practices, Wilhelm Fliess's work had a lasting impact on the field of psychoanalysis and the study of human psychology. His theories on biorythms have been largely discredited in the scientific community, but they paved the way for further research into the psychological and physiological cycles of the human body. His correspondence with Freud remains a valuable resource for understanding the development of psychoanalytic theory.

Fliess's ideas on the connections between physical ailments and psychological conditions also contributed to the holistic approach to medicine, emphasizing the interconnection between the mind and body in diagnosing and treating diseases.

Death

Wilhelm Fliess died on 13 October 1928 in Berlin, Germany. Despite the controversial aspects of his work, his contributions to the early development of psychoanalysis and his influence on Sigmund Freud's theories are recognized as significant milestones in the history of psychology.