Freud catalogues the various types of mistake (commonly known as Freudian Slips) made by normal people, which reveal more upon further inspection than they do at first glance. Among these are the misplacing and breaking of objects, forgetting names, words or intentions, and muddling actions or phrases. Each type is accompanied by the theory of its interpretation, many examples, and their analysis.

If you have read the introductory lectures then most of these will be familiar in concept, however this volume gives each a more exhaustive treatment and greater degree of illustration. This expanded edition contains extra material to Freud’s original publication, adding in examples sent to him by his readers (many of whom were also doctors), or that he experienced himself.

Behind nearly all of the types of misdoing or missaying we find repressed thoughts or feelings – be it related to an associated concept, name or action which our unconscious has a motive to forget or avoid. Though some of the examples are less convincing than others, and Freud admits himself that there are occasions of forgetting or misdoing etc that have other causes (such as due to memory in general, or clumsiness), most readers are likely to think of some examples of their own, or from those known to them. ( )

Fumbled “facts” from the Viennese quack.

A fundamental Freud text that touches on the themes, ideas, and concepts that intrigue him and cause him to wonder. While this was not as profound as some of the other Freud works that I have read, there is still something to be gained here by reading it. It was read in one sitting and Freud's conceptualizations of his ideas were original and linked to some of his other work. Overall, a decent book.

3.5 stars. ( )

Very interesting case collection – reader will most likely find himself in some of these cases (hopefully not those that can be considered as serious ones) because all cases presented are taken from the everyday life. Note this book is just that – interesting cases collection (many are contributed by Freud’s long-time colleagues) – author does not go into details and tries not to explain the causes of every case.

If you are interested in Freud’s work, this book is good starting point.

Recommended. ( )

I read this as a required reading in one of my classes in graduate school (which may have something to do with how I rated it). At the end of the book I was left wondering if anyone would ever suggest this book if the authors name wasn't Freud. ( )