Episode #150 - The Frankfurt School - Erich Fromm on Love
Erich Fromm on Love
In this episode, the discussion centers on Erich Fromm’s view of love as explored in The Art of Loving. Fromm argues that the fundamental human problem is a sense of existential separateness, and that love—understood not as a fleeting emotion but as an active faculty—is the only meaningful answer to this condition. The episode critiques how modern capitalist society encourages transactional relationships, where people treat themselves and others as commodities to be consumed. Fromm challenges this model by redefining love as an art—one that requires humility, courage, faith, and discipline to master. Rather than something that happens passively, real love is portrayed as an intentional act of giving that fosters growth, freedom, and connection, rooted in one’s capacity to love both others and oneself.
Further Reading:
The Art of Loving – Erich Fromm (1956)
Love and Will – Rollo May (1969)
All About Love – bell hooks (2000)
See the full transcript here.
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