The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0030075963 ISBN 13: 9780030075964

Publisher: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1973

What makes men kill? How can we explain man's lust for cruelty and destruction? This work tries to provide the answers. From the author of 'The Crisis of Psychoanalysis'.

About the Author:

Erich Fromm was a German-born U.S. psychoanalyst and social philosopher who explored the interaction between psychology and society. His other major works include The Art of Loving, Escape from Freedom, and Man for Himself. He died in 1980.

Review:

“If any single work could bring mankind to its senses, this book might qualify for that miracle. . . . This book is the product of one of the most penetrating, most mature minds of our time.” ―Lewis Mumford

“In this perhaps most important of his pioneering theoretical works, the distinguished author writes with brilliant insight in attempting to break the deadlock in the struggle between the instinctivism of Konrad Lorenz . . . and behaviorist B.F. Skinner. He moves toward a provocative conclusion which involves a critical revision of Freud's theory of a "death instinct" in man. . . . Fromm's studies of Stalin and Himmler, and especially his penetrating psychobiography of Hitler, fascinatingy support his thesis.” ―Publisher's Weekly

“Rich and provocative . . . a major book from the pen of a major writer.” ―The Washington Post Book World

“Fromm is an original thinker. . . . His analysis of the causes of destructiveness is unique, and he has an enviable skill in the lucid presentation of intricate material.” ―Atlantic Monthly

“By far the best book I have ever read on the subject and by far the most absorbing.” ―Ashley Montagu