The Neurotic's Quest for God-like Power
In his influential work, "Man for Himself," Erich Fromm delves into the complex realm of neurosis and its underlying motivations. Fromm astutely observes that neurosis can be likened to a private religion, with the neurotic individual yearning to attain a god-like status. This desire for immense power stems from the neurotic's need to cope with the challenges posed by their own body and existence as a whole.
Neurosis, as Fromm suggests, manifests as a personal religion for the afflicted individual. It becomes a means through which they seek a sense of control and mastery over their own lives. By striving to become God-like, the neurotic hopes to transcend the limitations imposed by their problematic body and the inherent difficulties of existence.
The quest for god-like power in neurosis is rooted in a fundamental dissatisfaction with one's own being. The neurotic perceives their body as a source of weakness and vulnerability, leading them to yearn for a state of omnipotence. They believe that by attaining god-like qualities, they will be able to overcome the limitations of their physical existence.
Fromm's analysis sheds light on the underlying psychological dynamics at play in neurosis. The neurotic individual seeks to compensate for their perceived deficiencies by assuming a position of absolute power. This desire for omnipotence is driven by a deep-seated fear of vulnerability and a need for self-preservation.
However, Fromm's observations also highlight the inherent paradox within the neurotic's quest for god-like power. While the desire for omnipotence may seem like a solution to their problems, it ultimately perpetuates their state of neurosis. The neurotic's relentless pursuit of power becomes a never-ending cycle, as they are unable to find true fulfillment or resolution.
Fromm's insights into neurosis as a private religion provide a valuable framework for understanding the complex interplay between power, control, and psychological well-being. By recognizing the neurotic's yearning for god-like power, we can better comprehend the underlying motivations behind their actions and behaviors.
It is important to note that Fromm's observations do not suggest that all individuals experiencing neurosis are actively seeking to become God. Rather, he highlights the underlying psychological dynamics that drive the neurotic's quest for power and control. By understanding these dynamics, we can approach the treatment and support of neurotic individuals with greater empathy and insight.
In conclusion, Erich Fromm's analysis of neurosis as a private religion offers valuable insights into the complex motivations of the neurotic individual. By recognizing the neurotic's desire for god-like power, we can gain a deeper understanding of their struggles and work towards providing effective support and treatment.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.