De Masi examines the terminology used in the analysis of sadomasochism and surveys extensively and in detail, the theories of other psychoanalysts. He further explores the relationship between sadomasochism and depression; it’s relationship to psychosis, borderline states, and many other conditions. He leaves very few stones unturned. He discusses the nature of evil – reparable and irreparable – in the broadest way possible. The reader has a rare opportunity to increase his/her awareness of the operation of sadomasochism in clinical practice, drawing from many diverse views, as well as those of the author.’- Dr Eric Brenman, former President of the British Psychoanalytical Society, from the Foreword to the English Edition’This book’s insistence on clarity and its invitation to delve more deeply and more radically into the phenomenon open the way to a positive approach based on the intuition that, if we know the enemy camp”