Da obsoleta carência de dominação a um novo princípio de realidade segundo Marcuse

Abstract

The fundamental reference work Eros and Civilization, by Herbert Marcuse, is taken to understand Sigmund Freud’s comprehension about the conditions for cultural formation and for development of civilization, from Marcuse’s interpretation on Freud’s thoughts. Based on Marcuse’s book, we seek the foundation for replacement of the Pleasure Principle by the Reality Principle, which, as civilization advances, gave way to the Performance Principle. Therefore, we consider the significance of the mental layers, identified by Freud as Id, Ego and Superego, for understanding the repression of vital instincts that made possible the Reality Principle, as well as made possible the Performance Principle, thanks to the surplus repression, according to Marcuse’s interpretation. From the understanding that domination was necessary for sexual repression in the beginnings of humanity, it is worth reflecting on the possibility of a new Reality Principle, when there is no longer need of this domination, considering the stage of development of civilization in the present day.