Paper short abstract:

What can study of "object relations" tell us about human behaviour? And is this applicable to contemporary anthropology? These are the key issues that the paper will deal with.

Paper long abstract:

The paper focuses on "object-relations" theorists, such as Bollas, and their possible contribution to an "intersubjective" or "relational" approach in anthropology. Through several examples, especially from recent studies of Southeast Asian communities, the author points that contemporary anthropological research could benefit from these aspects of psychoanalysis. Another important area where these two fields could benefit from each other's insights is the renewed interest for individualism (following Dumont), especially as it becomes obvious that various forms of individuality are not limited to the so-called "Western" (or industrial) societies, but exist cross-culturally.