34 pages • 1 hour read
Civilization And Its Discontents
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Book Brief
192
Book • Nonfiction
1930s
1930
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Civilization and Its Discontents, Freud explores the conflict between societal norms and individual desires, examining how civilizations aim to channel human drives towards constructive ends while individuals struggle with social conformity versus personal yearnings. He discusses human suffering's origins and responses, the evolution of social codes, societal neuroses, and the role of the super-ego in maintaining social order. The book includes discussions on substance abuse and insanity.
Informative
Contemplative
Melancholic
Challenging
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
41,758 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Sigmund Freud's Civilization And Its Discontents elicits varied reactions. Positively, readers commend its profound insights into human psychology and societal structure. Critically, some find its theories outdated and Freudian concepts overly complex. The book remains a thought-provoking, albeit challenging, exploration of the tension between individual desires and societal expectations.
Who Should Read Civilization And Its Discontents?
Readers with a keen interest in psychological theories, human behavior, and societal critique would find Civilization and Its Discontents by Sigmund Freud engaging. Fans of analytical works like Jung's Modern Man in Search of a Soul and Fromm's The Art of Loving will appreciate Freud's exploration of the tension between individual desires and societal expectations.
41,758 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Carl Jung
Carl Jung
A psychoanalyst mentioned by Freud, recognized for his belief that the human libido encompasses more than just sexual energy.
Ernest Jones
Ernest Jones
Freud’s biographer and a prominent advocate of psychoanalysis in the English-speaking world.
Susan Isaacs
Susan Isaacs
A child development theorist noted for emphasizing the role of play in fostering independence.
Melanie Klein
Melanie Klein
Another child development theorist acknowledged by Freud.
Theodor Reik
Theodor Reik
An advocate for non-medical degree analysts, who contributes to Freud's discussions in the book.
Franz Alexander
Franz Alexander
Develops an early form of therapy that foreshadows immersion therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder sufferers.
Johann Goethe
Johann Goethe
An author cited by Freud for his reflections on the human condition, influencing Freud's ideas through his explorations of good and evil.
192
Book • Nonfiction
1930s
1930
Adult
18+ years
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