Summary of Escape from Freedom

Escape from Freedom, originally published in 1941, is a classic work of psychology and social philosophy by the German-American philosopher and psychologist Erich Fromm. In this work, Fromm explores the difficulties that individuals have experienced when trying to utilize personal freedom for positive change. Fromm argues that, left to its own devices, freedom can become disempowering, creating anxiety and despair by allowing individuals to escape from responsibility and certainty. To address this problem, Fromm suggests an approach where individuals strive for autonomy and self-actualization, but remain constrained by a system of social responsibility and accountability. By understanding their obligations and striving for personal freedom within the framework of human responsibility, individuals can become liberated from fear and self-destruction.