On Francis Pasche’s (1993) text “From the ambivalent superego to the impersonal superego”: A brief introduction or Towards an impersonal and loving superego

This paper revisits Francis Pasche's 1993 seminal essay From the Ambivalent Superego to the Impersonal Superego. Particular emphasis is given to Pasche's view on the specific verticality in the relation between the ego and superego, and on its evolution. Pasche conceptualises the transformation of this relation from primary admiration and idealization towards an impersonal superego, which he describes as apophatic - defined by what it is not. In doing so, Pasche outlines an ethical horizon that is central to his conception of psychoanalysis, and more specifically of the analyst's inner stance. These ideas are discussed more precisely in reference to some of his other papers. Beyond Pasche's concepts, further reflection is given to the relationship between the ego and the superego and to the way it evolves, notably through processes of de-identification.