MAY — “The Strangest Disease”: May ’68 and its consequences

Abstract

This paper discusses the nature and aftermath of the May 1968 uprising in France, treating it as symbolically representative of the whole radical movement of the 1960s and 1970s. It explores how that movement and its failure to achieve its goals have affected the psychological atmosphere in which we conduct therapy, and also how some of the ideas which were developed might influence our practice. The author uses his own experience and feelings as part of this exploration.