Abstract

This chapter combines the problems of the affective unconscious and affective identity with the minimal self, more precisely, with the notion of the (less) minimal self. In order to accomplish this theoretical step, the following discussions take into account the dilemma of the retroactive constitution of the near and distant past. Retroactive constitution is embedded in the larger problem of time-consciousness. The chapter examines the phenomenological notion of the affective retroactive awakening of the past and tries to broaden the view of retroactivity by including the phenomenon of intrusive memories. The chapter also provides extensive analyses of the Freudian idea of afterwardsness (Nachträglichkeit) and compares it with the intentional accomplishment of retroactive sense-bestowing. The general aim of these analyses is to show the importance of retroactivity in the constitution of the affective unconscious and affective identity. In addition, the chapter expands the view of retroactivity to include traumatic retroactivity. Traumatic retroactivity includes intrusive memories and also incorporates the temporal profile of Freud’s afterwardsness.