64

The author takes distance from the classical position which views mastery only in function of its pathogenic aspects. He considers the different functions of mastery in psychic development and stresses the dynamics of the interaction of mastery, rhythmically constructed, between the baby and its environment. The author describes a « mastery of life » necessary for psychosomatic development. The source of tyranny is then considered on the basis of a failure of the work of primary mastery which develops between the small child and his/her environment. The author then analyses the link between mastery and free association within the psychoanalytic setting based on the hypothesis of a transference of the functions of mastery to this setting. Finally, he proposes a typical profile of the tyrant and describes the double process at work in the tyrannical bond, usurpation and exercise of power. From this perspective, he puts forth the idea that the tyrant, as a child, had been confronted with an environment which was relatively indifferent to his basic needs.