Psychology From The Standpoint Of The Subject

Klaus Holzkamp (1927-1995) was the founder of German Critical Psychology, working on the fundamental renewal of academic psychology. His ideas inspired generations of young scholars dissatisfied with the socio-political function of psychology and the human sciences. Although his approach has been discussed internationally, much of his work has not previously been available in English.

This selection of Holzkamp's writings provides an introduction to his psychology from the standpoint of the subject. In Holzkamp's approach, the object of psychological research is not the individual, but the world as it is experienced and lived by the individuals in their everyday lives. This requires a change of perspective to recognize the function that the common individualistic reduction of human subjectivity and agency has for maintaining established power-relations.

The concepts of social self-understanding and generalized agency play a key role in a psychology from the subjects' standpoint, as alternatives to subjection can only be realized together, and in accord, with others. Review: 'Klaus Holzkamp is arguably the most important postwar German psychologist who created collaboratively a unique system of psychology.

Psychology from the Standpoint of the Subject introduces English-speaking readers to a scientific psychology beyond the mainstream. The book articulates - based on excellent editorial work - the diversity, complexity, and geniality of Holzkamp's thought.' Thomas Teo, Professor of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada. 'Klaus Holzkamp has developed an integrated conception of psychology from the standpoint of the subject.

It is an extraordinarily systematic, powerful and rich framework which may transform our understanding of psychology. The twelve texts in this book give an overview over key concepts and topics in this framework which he expanded, revised, and strengthened throughout his career. His socially situated approach to human subjectivity offers conceptual tools for human subjects to reflect critically on their everyday lives and self-understandings and it combines social critique with a critique of the gaze and practice of psychology.' Ole Dreier, Professor of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark