The ethical self

The author discusses the genesis of the aptitude to think and to conduct oneself in an ethical manner in both personal and professional terms. She focuses her reflection on the self, postulating that its maturation appears to be the result of ongoing interaction between the innate (archetypal perspective) and the learned (developmental perspective). The recognition of the other, his reality and subjectivity, involves overcoming narcissistic expectations. The ethical attitude of an analyst assumes a commitment to a special responsibility in the relationship, without the expectation that it will be reciprocated. On this basis, the other can elaborate a position or inner state that he or she would not have been able to attain alone.