by HH Stein

(continuing with the sci fi theme this spring and summer (May: The Day the Earth Stood Still; June: Independence Day; July: Men in Black)

Psychoanalysis is well known for its concept of penis envy, but the corresponding male envy of a woman’s ability to bear children is less publicized although certainly no less important. Edith Jacobson addressed this issue in a 1950 paper entitled “Development of a Wish for a Child in Boys.” Jacobson’s paper refers to a point in the first two to three years of childhood when children are fascinated by the magic of pregnancy and birth. She writes about a little boy’s envy of his powerful mother and her god-like ability to create life. Interestingly, Jacobson’s ideas are represented in an unlikely place, Steven Spielberg’s film, Jurassic Park. Continue reading Taming Male Envy in “Jurassic Park”