wizard145 reviewed The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm
Review of 'The Art of Loving' on 'Goodreads'
2 stars
misogynistic and homophobic, but lots of good philo stimulating love talk
German language
Published June 11, 1956 by Ullstein.
4 stars
(14 reviews)
"The Art of Loving" (1956) is a seminal work by psychoanalyst and social philosopher Erich Fromm. In this book, Fromm explores the concept of love in a profound and comprehensive manner, arguing that love is not just a passive feeling but an art that requires practice, knowledge, and effort.
Through a detailed analysis, Fromm demystifies the idea that love is something that simply happens, proposing that it must be cultivated like any other skill. He divides love into different categories, including brotherly love, motherly love, erotic love, self-love, and love of God, discussing the characteristics and challenges of each.
Fromm also addresses the nature of love in modern society, criticizing the commercialization and superficiality of human relationships. He suggests that the true essence of love lies in the ability to give, to commit, and to genuinely care for the well-being of others, rather than seeking personal satisfaction alone.
In "The …
"The Art of Loving" (1956) is a seminal work by psychoanalyst and social philosopher Erich Fromm. In this book, Fromm explores the concept of love in a profound and comprehensive manner, arguing that love is not just a passive feeling but an art that requires practice, knowledge, and effort.
Through a detailed analysis, Fromm demystifies the idea that love is something that simply happens, proposing that it must be cultivated like any other skill. He divides love into different categories, including brotherly love, motherly love, erotic love, self-love, and love of God, discussing the characteristics and challenges of each.
Fromm also addresses the nature of love in modern society, criticizing the commercialization and superficiality of human relationships. He suggests that the true essence of love lies in the ability to give, to commit, and to genuinely care for the well-being of others, rather than seeking personal satisfaction alone.
In "The Art of Loving," Fromm combines psychological insights with philosophical and sociological analysis, offering a rich and multifaceted perspective on what it means to love. The book remains a relevant and inspiring read, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships and the importance of developing the art of love in their lives.
Review of 'The Art of Loving (Classics of Personal Development)' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
Erich Fromm is one of my favourite thinkers. The main thesis of this book is that love is an art: as such, it can be learnt and it must be practiced. Love is an activity, not something that "happens". Love is something that is built, not something that easily comes and easily goes. As Fromm puts it, "love and labor are inseparable. One loves that for which one labors, and one labors for that which one loves." Love is an attitude towards life and towards other human beings, not just a feeling toward another person.
