Inkblots and the Life-World – Toward a Rorschach Phenomenology

Abstract

This article summarizes the historical influences on Hermann Rorschach’s Psychodiagnostics in light of new findings and the retranslation of his monograph by Keddy and colleagues ( Rorschach, 2021 ). This exposition situates his work in the historical context of Swiss culture and psychiatry at the time of his training and research, identifies theoretical influences on his thought given findings from recent scholarship, and describes collegial relationships that impacted his experiment. The potential influence of philosophical phenomenology on Hermann Rorschach’s work, had he not passed away prematurely, is postulated given his relationship with Ludwig Binswanger, the nature of his personality, and theoretical interests, particularly kinesthetic perception. A summary of phenomenological theory regarding Rorschach’s project is provided as well as potential future theoretical and methodological frameworks in light of this connection. Specific suggestions for Rorschach psychology, given solutions from historical and phenomenological explorations, are provided.

The Theory of Hermann Rorschach

“…In his book, Hermann Rorschach lists only 13 references, five of which are to Carl Gustav Jung and one to Bleuler, the other references being mainly to methods rather than theories. The influence of Jung’s thought was clearly decisive (see the articles by McElfresh, 2023; Keddy et al, 2023).…”

Unravelling the Mystery of the Rorschach Test by Going Back to Its Origins

“…McElfresh (2023) provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of the European theoretical ferment of the early 20th century and develops the idea that the theory that best encompasses and explains Rorschach’s intentions is phenomenology. He summarizes the essentials of phenomenological theories, principally those of Husserl, Heidegger, and Merleau-Ponty.…”