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To Have or To Be?

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( 13,470 ratings, 993 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In To Have or To Be?, Erich Fromm explores two contrasting modes of existence: the having mode, focused on material possessions and external success, and the being mode, which emphasises personal growth, love, and genuine connections with others. Fromm critiques modern society's fixation on having and offers a compelling argument for why embracing the being mode can lead to a more fulfilled and meaningful life. This philosophical and psychological examination invites readers to reflect on their own values and the societal structures around them.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you're fascinated by the examination of human behaviour and societal values, this thought-provoking exploration into the contrast between material possession and authentic existence might resonate with you. It challenges conventional beliefs and encourages deep reflection on how we define success and happiness in a modern world.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

To Have or To Be? is one of the seminal books of the second half of the 20th century. Nothing less than a manifesto for a new social and psychological revolution to save our threatened planet, this book is a summary of the penetrating thought of Eric Fromm.

His thesis is that two modes of existence struggle for the spirit of humankind: the having mode, which concentrates on material possessions, power, and aggression, and is the basis of the universal evils of greed, envy, and violence; and the being mode, which is based on love, the pleasure of sharing, and in productive activity.

To Have or To Be? is a brilliant programme for socioeconomic change.

Series: Bloomsbury Revelations

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

To Have or To Be? by Erich Fromm explores the contrast between materialistic "having" and enlightened "being" lifestyles. Reviews highlight Fromm's inquiry into societal values and his critique of modern consumerism. Critics often praise Fromm's philosophical depth and relevance, noting its insightful analysis of human nature and society's spiritual crises.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781780936802

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 April 2013

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Bloomsbury Academic

Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 12.0mm

Width: 138.0mm

Height: 214.0mm

Weight: 270g

Pages: 216

About the Author

Born in Frankfurt-am-Main, Erich Fromm (1900-1980) studied sociology and psychoanalysis. In 1933, he emigrated as a member of the Frankfurt School of social thinkers to the United States, moved to Mexico in 1950, and spent his twilight years between 1974 and 1980 in Switzerland. His books Fear of Freedom (1941) and The Art of Loving (1956) made him famous. Other well-known books are Marx's Concept of Man, Beyond the Chains of Illusion, and The Essential Fromm.

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