On Opportunities of the Historical Psychoanalysis

Abstract. The authors attempt to make conceptual and stylistic parallels between historical science and psychoanalysis, and also to outline some perspectives for their methodological interaction. The theory of historical science proceeds from the assumption that the purpose of history is creating collective and individual identity. The basis of this identity is historical memory, which is volatile, discrete, false (concerning historical facts) set of impressions and psychological attitudes, as well is weighed down by the neurotic repetition of collective traumas. Approaching history as “identity-memory-narrative”, authors inevitably turn to the categories and methodology of psychoanalysis. Does the application of analytical vision to historical process as a whole and to its specific aspects develop more holistic images of the past? The article discusses the stages of counter development of historical science and psychoanalysis in the 20th century and indicates the range of problems, which requires the mutual efforts of historians and psychoanalysts.

Keywords: historical psychoanalysis, history and psychoanalysis, psychohistory, psychodynamic factors of history, historical memory, collective trauma, identity.