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By narcissism is meant ceasing to have an authentic interest in the outside world but instead an intense attachment to oneself, to one's own group, clan, religion, nation, race, etc. - with consequent serious distortions of rational judgment. In general, the need for narcissistic satisfaction derives from the necessity to compensate for material and cultural poverty.

Erich Fromm#57

SelfEgoJudgmentPoverty

About this quote

What does it mean?
Narcissism is replacing interest in the world with intense attachment to self or one's group. It distorts judgment and stems from inner poverty.
In plain terms
Narcissism is loving yourself or your group more than the world.
What can you take from it?
Watch for narcissism distorting your judgment.

Where it applies

  • interpersonal conflict
  • political extremism
  • therapy

Putting it to work

  • cultivate outside interests
  • check biases

Questions to consider

  • Are you too focused on yourself?
  • Why do you seek narcissistic satisfaction?

Another view

Narcissism is sometimes necessary for self-preservation.

More from Erich Fromm

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