In "Fraud: Essays," David Rakoff explores the intersection of psychoanalysis and retail in contemporary society. He suggests that psychoanalysis emerged as a way for late-19th-century secular Judaism to find spiritual significance in a time when traditional religion was losing its hold. Similarly, retail culture in the late 20th century serves a similar purpose, helping individuals seek meaning in a world that has largely moved away from religious beliefs. Rakoff reflects on his experience of impersonating Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, in a store window during a religious holiday. This act raises questions about the nature of meaning-making in a secular age and the implications of replacing spiritual traditions with commercial practices. It highlights the complexity of identity and the ways in which modern rituals intertwine with consumer culture, prompting a reevaluation of how we celebrate our histories and beliefs.

In "Fraud: Essays," David Rakoff explores the intersection of psychoanalysis and retail in contemporary society. He suggests that psychoanalysis emerged as a way for late-19th-century secular Judaism to find spiritual significance in a time when traditional religion was losing its hold. Similarly, retail culture in the late 20th century serves a similar purpose, helping individuals seek meaning in a world that has largely moved away from religious beliefs.

Rakoff reflects on his experience of impersonating Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, in a store window during a religious holiday. This act raises questions about the nature of meaning-making in a secular age and the implications of replacing spiritual traditions with commercial practices. It highlights the complexity of identity and the ways in which modern rituals intertwine with consumer culture, prompting a reevaluation of how we celebrate our histories and beliefs.