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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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To Have Or To Be? summary
A classic about the psyche and socioeconomic change
21 mins
Brief summary
To Have Or To Be? by Erich Fromm explores the fundamental difference between possessing material things and experiencing life. He argues that our culture has become obsessed with having, leading to a crisis of personal identity and social fragmentation.
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To Have Or To Be?
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Key idea 1 of 7
Economic progress doesn’t guarantee happiness or wealth.
Everywhere we look, another product promises to better our lives: a new car to make us feel successful, a phone to help us manage our responsibilities. But if a better life is readily available, why are so many of us overwhelmed, lonely, disillusioned, and discontented?
Contrary to what we often hear, there’s more to life than unbridled consumption.
In fact, Western civilization’s “pursuit of happiness” has produced anxiety, depression, and addictions like never before. The urge to compete and compare leaves many of us isolated, and convinced that we need to be more and have more. Ironically, as long as accumulation is our primary ambition, we’ll never accumulate enough. We’ll grow more and more unfulfilled. But the consequences of unbridled consumption don’t stop at the level of the individual.
There are societal consequences, too. One of these is the consolidation of wealth in the hands of the few.
Because our capitalistic, “every-man-for-himself” system rewards selfishness and greed, things like solidarity, sharing, and contentment are devalued. Over time, this increases the disparity between economic classes, and can even cause wars. Historically speaking, greed has factored into almost every international war—from the French and Indian War to World War I.
When greed drives society, everyone loses. Employers seek to deceive their customers, destroy their competition, and exploit their workers. So, where does that leave us? Is communism the solution? No, because, like capitalism, communism doesn’t seek to curb consumption.
Nevertheless, drastic social and economic changes are necessary to reshape a society that no longer benefits the majority. Otherwise, our cycle of dissatisfaction will continue.
Every day, we’re inundated with ideas about what we need to buy in order to be happy, and what we need to think in order to belong. But how does this affect the way we relate to ourselves and others? Is there a better way? Let’s explore those questions next.
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What is To Have Or To Be? about?
To Have or To Be (1976) challenges the consumerist motivations that drive us “to have” and instead invites readers to embrace a new ideal: “to be.” This way of life provides the fulfillment that power, status, and keeping up with the Joneses promise don’t deliver.
To Have Or To Be? Review
To Have or To Be? (1976) by Erich Fromm is a thought-provoking exploration of the fundamental question of what it means to live a meaningful life. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- By contrasting two modes of existence, it offers a fresh perspective on how we can find true fulfillment and happiness in our lives.
- Fromm's deep insights into human nature and society provide a solid foundation for understanding the consequences of our choices.
- The book's rich analysis of contemporary culture and consumerism sheds light on the ways in which we can transcend a shallow materialistic existence.
Who should read To Have Or To Be??
- Busy people tired of the “rat race.”
- Weary workers seeking fulfillment beyond materialism, power, and status.
- Mindful people who desire a life of purposeful productivity.
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To Have Or To Be? FAQs
What is the main message of To Have Or To Be??
The main message of To Have Or To Be? is to shift our focus from material possessions to personal growth and meaningful connections.
How long does it take to read To Have Or To Be??
The reading time for To Have Or To Be? can vary, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is To Have Or To Be? a good book? Is it worth reading?
To Have Or To Be? is a thought-provoking book that challenges our values and provides insights for a more fulfilling life.
Who is the author of To Have Or To Be??
The author of To Have Or To Be? is Erich Fromm.
What to read after To Have Or To Be??
If you're wondering what to read next after To Have Or To Be?, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm
- Wanting by Luke Burgis
- Advice Not Given by Mark Epstein
- Escape from Freedom by Erich Fromm
- The Wealth Money Can't Buy by Robin Sharma
- Phaedo by Plato
- Master Your Emotions by Thibaut Meurisse
- So Good They Can't Ignore You by Cal Newport
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- The Busy Brain Cure by Romie Mushtaq