Lacan's View on Desire: Beyond Attainment

When Jacques Lacan asserted, “on given ground,” he was indeed commenting on an underlying premise that often distracts from the fundamental issues of desire and its pursuit. Lacan, known for his psychoanalytic theories, often delved into the depths of human psychology, particularly how the human desire for happiness shapes our ethical lives. One of the common misconceptions, as seen in the reference to Aristotle, is the idea that the pursuit of happiness or true satisfaction is inherently flawed. However, Lacan's perspective challenges and perhaps broadens this view.

Existential Pursuit of Happiness

In his seminal work, The Four Fundamental Concepts of Psychoanalysis, Lacan discussed the concept of the real, which is often contrasted with the symbolic and imaginary orders. He argued that the traditional view of the ethical life, as espoused by Aristotle, emphasizes an external or externally imposed satisfaction of desires. However, Lacan believes that true happiness cannot be achieved simply through the attainment of desired goals. Instead, he posits that the attainment of happiness is more closely tied to one's ability to accept the inherent lack or deficiency in desire.

The Lacanian Perspective on Desire

Lacan's theory of desire is rooted in the idea that desire is itself a lack. His famous statement, "the unconscious is structured like a language," reveals the complex dynamics of human interaction and experience. In Lacan's view, desire is not inherently negative but rather a fundamental aspect of human subjectivity. The absence or the gap in the object of desire is not a flaw to be overcome but a necessary condition for human existence.

Attainment vs. Presence of Desire

Aristotle's ethical life, as described in his work Nicomachean Ethics, assumes that true happiness (eudaimonia) is attainable through the fulfillment of desired goals. However, Lacan argues that this view is simplistic and overlooks the psychological complexity of desire. For Lacan, the subject is always caught between a desire which is insatiable and the enjoyment it seeks. In this context, the idea of true happiness becomes more a question of how the subject navigates the gap between desire and reality rather than a straightforward attainment of goals.

The Role of Intuition in Pursuit of True Happiness

Lacan also contemplates the role of intuition in understanding the complex dynamics of desire. Intuition, as a form of non-conceptual awareness, allows the subject to intuitively grasp the underlying meanings and structures of experience. According to Lacan, it is through this intuitive understanding that the subject can come to terms with the meaninglessness of desire—and not merely its presence or attainment.

Accepting the Lack in Desire

The key to true happiness, from a Lacanian perspective, is not in the external attainment of desires but in the acceptance of this inherent lack. This does not mean an acceptance of passivity or resignation, but a recognition of the depth and complexity of human existence. The ethical life, as articulated by Lacan, is thus more about understanding and navigating the complex interplay between desire, reality, and the self.

Conclusion: Broader Implications of Lacanian Thought

Lacan's insights challenge us to rethink the traditional notions of happiness and ethical living. They invite us to explore how we can lead a fulfilling life not through the attainment of things we desire but through a deeper understanding of the nature of desire itself. By accepting the inherent lack in desire, we can achieve a more meaningful and authentic form of happiness that is not bound by external goals.

References

Lacan, J. (1991). The Four Fundamental Concepts of Psychoanalysis. New York: W.W. Norton Company.

Aristotle. (1999). Nicomachean Ethics. Translated by Terence Irwin. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company.