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About this quote

What does it mean?
Fromm argues that psychoanalysis must address sociological problems because the human psyche is shaped by social relationships.
In plain terms
The mind is shaped by society, so psychologists should study social issues.
What can you take from it?
Psychology and sociology are deeply interconnected.

Where it applies

  • academic research
  • clinical practice
  • policy making

Putting it to work

  • integrate social data in therapy
  • study cultural impacts on mind

Questions to consider

  • How much of your personality is shaped by society?
  • Should therapists study sociology?

Another view

Focusing too much on society might overlook individual biological factors.

More from Erich Fromm

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