The Art of Being

By: Erich Fromm

Narrated by: Raymond Todd

This classic work by psychologist and social philosopher Eric Fromm builds upon his previous popular book To Have or to Be? The Art of Being teaches us to avoid the tantalizing illusions of our consumer-driven world by learning to function as a whole person from a state of inner completeness or being. The transition from an identity of having to being creates a state of enlightened psychological and spiritual happiness.

Fromm observes that the modern person is less a self-reflective being than a composite of data promoted by the mass media, and he encourages us to pursue true self-awareness beyond simple political, ideological, and religious cliches. By learning to be centered in the self, the individual is less swayed by the endless pressures and dissatisfactions of the culture of consumerism.

©1989 Estate of Erich Fromm. Foreword 1992 Rainer Funk (P)2006 Blackstone Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"Eric Fromm is both a psychologist of penetration and a writer of ability." (Chicago Tribune)

Was thrown off by the last chapter

After all the quite sense making points on individuals and personal development, the last chapter was like from another book, completely unrelated and full of ungrounded assertions and resentment.

I guess 40 years of self analysis is not enough to withstand the temptation of one simple solution for all human misery.

I guess Fromm was too privileged to even imagine the nastiness of prehistoric lifestyle.

a great listen!

many concepts of life, broken down in such great eloquence! wonderful choice of words! thank you!

Interesting Perspectives

I’m glad I listened to this book. I enjoyed learning about his perspectives on life. The narrator does a wonderful job as well.

Critical questions

Erich Fromm's The Art of Being challenges the idea that happiness comes from acquiring possessions (having) and instead argues for the importance of self-discovery and authenticity (being). Fromm critiques quick-fix self-help solutions and emphasizes the need for self-reflection and critical thinking. He encourages us to move beyond cultural expectations and find our own unique purpose in life.

Short but deep

It is instructive and entertaining... A bit dated but the principles stand up well.