Thoughts on Freuds book totem and taboo?

Question

What do you guys think about the book, I would agree with what he argues that incest is a natural thing and that this gave rise to totemism and then religion, the oedupus complex explains it well. What do you think.

Answer 1

Totem and Taboo: Resemblances Between the Mental Lives of Savages and Neurotics was published in 1913 after a minimum or research with is own patients and far less field work with the "savages."

Freud always sounds logical and convincing, but often misstates factual information in favor of providing proof for his theories.  The book was not well received before 1920 and has few commented adherents professional today.  It has been drop from the curricula of many schools today except as a historical document.

Answer 2

He argues it pretty well and makes it convincing to the reader but try analyzing it on your own pretending that you didn't read his argument. You'll find that idea of incest is morally wrong and you'll find it hard to believe his argument.

Answer 3

Freud put all his most famous themes into this work, it was thought-provoking, extremely thorough, and the ultimate uproar of the early 1900's!  The work presents an analogy between terms:  on the one hand, savages, on the other, neurotics and children.  The forbidden behaviors of humanity, what a brilliant way to explore an "out of the box" subject.  Does something considered natural, make it morally right?      

I wonder if Freud had some skeletons in his closet, Hmmm...

As to your agreement with him...I would caution you not to make as assessment on a belief system until you have done a more methodical research pattern, with  varied ideals.  

You go Mr. Knowledge seeker!  

The 3 "R's"...Read, Research and Reflect...

Enjoy your seeking...

Doncy

Answer 4

huh