This advanced seminar will feature developments in contemporary psychoanalytic theory. The 1980s saw a period of ferment in psychoanalytic theory during which several challenges to classical Freudian analysis were articulated. This course will begin with a brief review of these challenges, including object relations theory and self psychology. But the “winner,” so to speak, has been relational psychoanalysis, which is the predominant school in contemporary analytic thinking. We will read theoretical and clinical papers by prominent contemporary relational analysts (Stephen Mitchell, Lewis Aron, Muriel Dimen, Jodie Messler Davies) as well as some critics of the relational school (Jon Mills). We will also interview (by phone or Skype, etc.) some working relational analysts to hear them articulate what they think they are doing. Students will be expected to read, present and critique current psychoanalytic work in papers and oral presentations.