The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness [Paperback]

Renowned psychoanalyst and social philosopher Erich Fromm examines the causes and effects of peoples violent tendencies inThe Anatomy of Human Destructiveness.

In this provocative book, the distinguished author writes to break the deadlock argued about the roots of human nature by exploring the struggle between the instinctivism of Konrad Lorenz and behavior psychologist B. F. Skinner: are people inherently antagonistic or do people learn hostility from their environment and the actions of those around them?

Drawing from neurophysiology and anthropology studies and findings, Fromm presents fascinating ideas about how the human character and condition developedand continues to developin contemporary society.

A book by Erich Fromm is always intelligent and contains much of interest and insight, and this one is no exception.The New York Times

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