Is 'Civilization And Its Discontents' Based On Freud'S Theories?

2025-06-17 07:51:21 35

4 answers

Ava
Ava
2025-06-23 10:15:18
Absolutely! 'Civilization and Its Discontents' is Freud’s own work, diving deep into his psychoanalytic theories. He explores the tension between individual desires and societal constraints, framing it through concepts like the pleasure principle and the superego. Freud argues that civilization demands repression of primal instincts, leading to inherent discontent. His signature ideas—the Oedipus complex, aggression as a innate drive, and the death instinct—are woven throughout. It’s less about clinical case studies and more about applying psychoanalysis to culture, making it a philosophical extension of his earlier theories.

What’s fascinating is how Freud connects personal psychology to collective struggles. He sees societal norms as a mirror of the superego’s moral policing, and war as an outburst of repressed Thanatos (the death drive). The book doesn’t just repeat his theories; it stretches them to explain why human societies, despite progress, can’t escape conflict. It’s Freud at his most ambitious, blending psychology, anthropology, and social critique.
Zoe
Zoe
2025-06-19 07:19:23
Yes, and it’s one of Freud’s most accessible works for non-psychologists. Instead of dense clinical jargon, he uses clear arguments to link his theories to everyday frustrations. The book builds on 'Beyond the Pleasure Principle', especially the death drive, but shifts focus to how civilization amplifies human misery. Freud suggests that love and aggression are eternal rivals, and society’s rules just intensify the struggle. His take on guilt—as internalized parental authority—is pure psychoanalysis, but applied to cultural taboos. The blend of theory and grand societal critique makes it a standout.
Kiera
Kiera
2025-06-19 01:13:39
Freud’s fingerprints are all over it. The book expands his idea of the unconscious into a cultural diagnosis, arguing that societal progress comes at the cost of personal happiness. Key Freudian themes—repression, the id’s chaos, and the ego’s balancing act—are recast as civilizational dilemmas. Even his controversial 'death drive' gets a starring role, framing wars as inevitable eruptions of pent-up instincts. It’s less technical than his clinical works but just as provocative, proving psychoanalysis isn’t confined to the couch.
Noah
Noah
2025-06-22 09:56:54
Definitely. Freud reworks his classic theories here, like repression and the Oedipus complex, but targets society instead of individuals. He posits that civilization’s demands create universal neurosis—a bold claim only Freud could make. The book feels like a sequel to his earlier ideas, with aggression and guilt as central villains. It’s theory turned outward, analyzing cultures as if they were patients on his couch.
모든 답변 보기
QR 코드를 스캔하여 앱을 다운로드하세요

Related Books

길에서 주운 노숙자가 알고보니 유명그룹 대표님?!
길에서 주운 노숙자가 알고보니 유명그룹 대표님?!
S시의 최고 재벌 강지혁의 약혼녀가 하루아침에 교통사고로 죽게 되면서 임유진은 음주운전 가해자라는 죄명을 안고 3년 형을 선고받는다. 지옥 같았던 3년간의 복역 생활을 어렵사리 버텨낸 그녀, 겨우 출소하여 자유를 찾는가 싶었는데 소문의 그 강지혁을 건드리게 됐을 줄이야? 남자의 정체를 알게 된 그녀는 그의 앞에 무릎 꿇고 애원했다. “강지혁, 제발 나 좀 놔줘.” 이에 강지혁은 입꼬리를 씩 말아 올렸다. “난 누나 절대 안 놔줘.” 모두 말한다. 강지혁은 피도 눈물도 없는 냉혈한이라고. 하지만 그는 옥살이하고 나온 환경미화원을 위해 간이고 쓸개고 모두 빼줄 것처럼 사랑을 속삭였다. 하지만 교통사고가 나던 날의 진실이 밝혀지면서 둘의 사랑은 산산이 조각나 버린다. 그렇게 두 사람의 사랑은 그녀의 도망으로 그렇게 끝나는 듯했으나……. 몇 년 후의 어느 날, 남자가 그녀의 앞에 무릎 꿇고 애원했다. “유진, 너만 나한테 돌아온다면 나 뭐든 할게.” 그런 남자의 눈빛을 지그시 바라보던 여자의 입에서 이윽고 한마디가 툭 튀어나왔다. “그러면 죽어.”
9.6
1769 Chapters
그리움에 남은 생을 가둘 필요가 있을까
그리움에 남은 생을 가둘 필요가 있을까
“나리야, 너 어릴 때 집안끼리 정혼해 둔 상대가 있단다. 이제 네 건강도 많이 회복됐으니, S 시로 돌아와 결혼하는 게 어떠니?” “네가 정말 원하지 않는다면, 너희 아버지와 다시 상의해서 이 결혼을 없던 일로 해도 괜찮단다.” 어두운 방 안, 송나리는 조용히 앉아 아무 말도 하지 않았다. 전화기 너머에서 어머니 장혜정은 또다시 딸에게 거절당할 것을 예감하며 깊은 한숨을 내쉬려 했다. 그때, 나리가 입을 열었다. “...엄마, 엄마 말씀대로 돌아가서 결혼할게요.” 장혜정은 순간 말을 잃었다. 예상치 못한 딸의 대답이었다. “네가... 정말 동의한다고?” 나리는 평온한 목소리로 대답했다. “네, 동의해요. 하지만 H 시에서 처리해야 할 일이 조금 남아 있어요. 다 정리하고 나서 보름 안에 돌아갈게요. 엄마, 그동안 결혼 준비 부탁드려요.” 그녀는 몇 마디를 더 남긴 후 전화를 끊었다.
29 Chapters
Accidental Surrogate for Alpha
Accidental Surrogate for Alpha
After struggling with infertility for years and being betrayed by her lover, Ella finally decides to have a baby on her own. However everything goes wrong when she gets inseminated with the sperm of intimidating billionaire Dominic Sinclair. All of a sudden her life is turned upside down when the mix up comes to light -- especially because Sinclair isn't just any billionaire, he's also a werewolf campaigning to be Alpha King! He's not going to let just anyone have his pup, can Ella convince him to let her stay in her child's life? And why is he always looking at her like she's his next meal?! He couldn't be interested in a human, could he?
9.5
992 Chapters
Broken Bond
Broken Bond
"And let me guess, you're a bad boy type, huh?" Callum grins menacingly, running his tongue over his straight white teeth. "The worst, babe." ********** VANESSA : I'm a good girl. I don't get into trouble, I don't break curfew, and I don't even date. I broke my own rules for him; the man that so many people fear. I thought I saw a side of him that nobody else did, that he wasn't the monster people made him out to be. I knew my prayers were answered when I discovered he was my fated mate, and hoped that the two of us would live happily ever after together. I never expected him to leave the next day and break me in unimaginable ways. I never imagined he'd become the villain in my story. ********** BROKEN BOND is a full length paranormal romance novel with darker themes that may be triggering to some readers. While it is connected to the six-pack series universe, it is a standalone novel. The story will end with a HEA, but it may not come about in the way you expect.
10
43 Chapters
Fractured
Fractured
Warning: Mature Content Ahead. Can’t decide what trope you want to read next? Well, look no further because Fractured has it all. If you're ready to dive into a world where passion meets peril, where dominance intertwines with desire, and where one fierce female leads the charge, then this book is for you. On her first day at university, Josie’s life takes a dramatic turn. Expecting nothing more than the typical college experience, she instead finds herself thrust into a realm of supernatural intrigue. Her guide into this new world is none other than her enigmatic and irresistibly attractive headmaster. As Josie navigates her new reality, she encounters five breathtakingly hot males, each with their own secrets and powers. These men are not just eye candy; they play pivotal roles in a dangerous game of power and attraction. Josie must learn to harness her strength, confront hidden enemies, and balance the intense chemistry with the dominant males who surround her. Her journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and undeniable passion. This book is a thrilling blend of romance, suspense, and supernatural elements, perfect for readers who crave a story that's as hot as it is heart-pounding. Prepare for mature themes and explicit scenes that will leave you breathless. Join Josie as she embarks on an adventure that will challenge her, change her, and ignite a flame within her that burns brighter than she ever imagined. This story contains explicit group scenes including some bxb.
10
420 Chapters
The Arranged Bride
The Arranged Bride
"I said you won't be working anymore." She smirked, "Watch me." Saying that she turned and I watched her till she walked out of the door.........................................The thirty-year-old billionaire bachelor Nicholas Carter isn't really fond of the word- love, owing to his past. What happens when he is arranged in marriage to the twenty-seven-year-old sweet and independent Sophia Jones who refuses to bow down in front of him and accept everything he throws her way unlike an usual arranged bride? Oh! Did I mention Nicholas Carter's five-year-old son?
9.8
54 Chapters

Related Questions

How Long Is Freud'S 'Civilization And Its Discontents'?

4 answers2025-06-17 01:43:05
Freud's 'Civilization and Its Discontents' is a dense but relatively short work, clocking in at around 80-100 pages depending on the edition. It's not the length that matters, though—it's how Freud packs so much into such a compact space. The book explores the tension between individual desires and societal constraints, delving into concepts like the death drive and the superego. What makes it fascinating is how Freud connects psychology to broader cultural critiques. He argues that civilization demands repression, creating inevitable discontent. The prose is sharp, almost clinical, but the ideas simmer long after you finish. It’s the kind of book you reread just to catch what you missed the first time.

What Is The Main Argument In 'Civilization And Its Discontents'?

4 answers2025-06-17 23:01:33
Freud's 'Civilization and Its Discontents' digs into the tension between human instincts and societal rules. He argues civilization demands repression—our aggressive and sexual drives clash with laws, morals, and order. This creates perpetual guilt and unhappiness. The book explores how societies curb primal desires to maintain stability, yet this very restraint breeds discontent. Freud ties it to the superego’s harsh judgments, making us feel guilty even for thoughts, not just actions. Religion, art, and love are temporary escapes, but they can’t fully reconcile our wild instincts with civilized life. What’s fascinating is his take on technology. Even progress can’t erase this fundamental conflict; it just masks it. Freud’s pessimism shines—civilization may protect us, but it also stifles our true nature. The book’s a grim mirror, showing how our greatest achievements come at a psychological cost.

Why Is 'Civilization And Its Discontents' Considered Controversial?

4 answers2025-06-17 17:15:03
Freud's 'Civilization and Its Discontents' sparks debate because it challenges the very fabric of societal harmony. He argues that civilization demands repression—our instincts for aggression and sexual freedom clash with communal order, creating chronic dissatisfaction. Critics slam this as overly pessimistic, reducing human progress to a mere battle against primal urges. The book’s bold claim that religion is an 'illusion' to cope with existential terror also ruffled feathers, especially among theologians. Freud’s dark lens on human nature feels reductive to some, ignoring altruism and cultural creativity. Yet, others praise its raw honesty. By framing society as a necessary but stifling force, Freud articulates a tension we all feel but rarely voice. His ideas on the superego policing desires resonate in modern discussions about mental health. The controversy lies in its uncomfortable truths: civilization isn’t just a triumph; it’s a negotiated surrender.

Does 'Civilization And Its Discontents' Relate To Psychology Today?

4 answers2025-06-17 13:45:55
Freud's 'Civilization and Its Discontents' remains eerily relevant to modern psychology, especially in how it dissects the tension between individual desires and societal constraints. Today, therapists often grapple with patients who feel crushed by the demands of productivity, social media perfection, or rigid norms—echoing Freud’s idea that civilization imposes suffering by repressing our primal instincts. The book’s exploration of guilt, aggression, and the 'death drive' resonates in studies on anxiety disorders and the psychological toll of urban isolation. Contemporary research on collective trauma, like pandemics or climate anxiety, mirrors Freud’s warnings about civilization’s fragility. His concept of the 'superego' aligns with cognitive-behavioral therapy’s focus on internalized criticism. Yet, modern psychology expands beyond Freud’s pessimism, integrating neurobiology and cultural diversity. While some theories feel dated, the core question—how to balance human nature with societal survival—still sparks debates in mental health circles.

How Does 'Civilization And Its Discontents' Critique Modern Society?

4 answers2025-06-17 08:49:56
Freud's 'Civilization and Its Discontents' digs into the tension between individual desires and societal constraints. He argues modern society forces us to repress primal instincts—aggression, sexual drives—for collective harmony, creating inner turmoil. The book paints civilization as a double-edged sword: it protects us from chaos but inflicts psychological suffering by stifling our true nature. Freud sees guilt as society’s enforcer, a byproduct of suppressed urges that leaves us perpetually discontent. Technology and progress don’t bring happiness, just more layers of repression. The book questions if the trade-off—security for freedom—is worth it, hinting that our discontent might be the price of order. Freud’s critique remains eerily relevant, especially in today’s hyper-regulated world where anxiety and alienation feel like universal currencies.

How Does 'Grendel' Criticize Human Civilization?

3 answers2025-06-20 09:27:18
John Gardner's 'Grendel' rips into human civilization by showing us through the monster's eyes how hollow our grand narratives really are. The humans in the story build their societies on myths of heroism and order, but Grendel sees the truth - it's all just violence and chaos dressed up in fancy words. Their mead halls and kingdoms are fragile constructs that crumble under his attacks, revealing how easily their so-called civilization falls apart. The poet character especially gets under Grendel's skin, spinning pretty lies about their culture while ignoring the bloodshed that actually holds it together. What makes this critique so brutal is that Grendel isn't some mindless beast; he's smarter than most humans and sees right through their hypocrisy. Their wars aren't about justice, their laws aren't about fairness - it's all just power plays and survival instincts pretending to be something nobler.

What Lost Civilization Does 'Fingerprints Of The Gods' Describe?

4 answers2025-06-20 08:37:14
'Fingerprints of the Gods' dives into the mysteries of ancient civilizations, particularly focusing on Atlantis and other advanced societies that supposedly predate recorded history. Graham Hancock argues that these civilizations possessed technology and knowledge far beyond what we traditionally attribute to them. He points to architectural marvels like the pyramids of Egypt and the ruins of Tiwanaku as evidence of their sophistication. The book suggests a global cataclysm wiped them out, leaving only fragments of their existence. The narrative weaves together myths, geological data, and archaeological anomalies to challenge mainstream history. Hancock’s theory hinges on the idea that these civilizations shared a common origin or were interconnected in ways we’re only beginning to understand. The book doesn’t just describe a single lost civilization but paints a picture of a forgotten epoch where humanity achieved greatness before collapsing under natural disasters.

How Does 'A History Of The World In 6 Glasses' Link Beer To Civilization?

4 answers2025-06-14 01:56:19
In 'A History of the World in 6 Glasses', beer isn't just a drink—it's a cornerstone of civilization. The book argues that beer's fermentation process likely began with the storage of grain, which early agricultural societies like the Mesopotamians and Egyptians relied on. This wasn't just about sustenance; beer became currency, a social lubricant, and even part of religious rituals. Workers building the pyramids were paid in beer, and it featured in hymns to goddesses like Ninkasi. The drink also spurred technological advances. Brewing required pottery for storage, which led to the development of ceramics. Beer's role in communal feasting helped solidify social hierarchies, as elites controlled its distribution. The book paints beer as a catalyst for stability—wherever grain was grown, beer followed, binding communities together long before bread became a staple. It's a fascinating lens to view how something so simple shaped trade, culture, and even the earliest economies.
좋은 소설을 무료로 찾아 읽어보세요
GoodNovel 앱에서 수많은 인기 소설을 무료로 즐기세요! 마음에 드는 책을 다운로드하고, 언제 어디서나 편하게 읽을 수 있습니다
앱에서 책을 무료로 읽어보세요
앱에서 읽으려면 QR 코드를 스캔하세요.
DMCA.com Protection Status