Daniel Widlocher, 1998 (1929 – 2021)

Daniel Widlocher’s pioneering work contributed significantly to both clinical and theoretical knowledge through his unquenchable curiosity and willingness to reach beyond the psychoanalytic discipline. Dr. Widlocher defined psychoanalysis as both a cultural and therapeutic practice. As an effective thought leader, he was deeply committed to engaging in interdisciplinary discussions to advance the value of psychoanalysis. His expertise spanned roles as a professor of psychiatry, doctor of psychology, and psychoanalyst.

Dr. Widlocher was a frequent speaker and a prolific writer. His books in the ten years prior to his award included News Freudian models, language, image, thought (1995), with Pierre Fedida; Depression (1996), with Marie-Christine Hardy; The Logic of Depression (1983 and 1995); and Psychotropic Dugs, a Way of Thinking About the Psyche? (1990). He also authored  numerous impactful articles. Throughout his career, Dr. Widlocher led and participated in many psychoanalytic organizations and was one of the founders of the Association psychanalytique de France, partnering with Donald Winicott and Wladimir Granoff.