In 'The Culture of Narcissism', Christopher Lasch explores the rise of self-absorption in modern society and its implications for personal relationships and community. He argues that narcissism is not merely an individual flaw but a cultural phenomenon shaped by economic changes, media influences, and social structures. Lasch incisively critiques how consumerism fosters a superficial sense of identity and communal disconnection. Through his profound insights, he prompts readers to reflect on the costs of prioritizing self over society. Will we find a way back to genuine human connection, or are we destined to remain trapped in our narcissistic culture?
By Christopher Lasch
Published: 2018
"In a society where self-interest reigns supreme, the pursuit of genuine connections becomes the rarest of treasures."
The classic New York Times bestseller, with a new introduction by E.J. Dionne Jr. When The Culture of Narcissism was first published in 1979, Christopher Lasch was hailed as a “biblical prophet” (Time). Lasch’s identification of narcissism as not only an individual ailment but also a burgeoning social epidemic was groundbreaking. His diagnosis of American culture is even more relevant today, predicting the limitless expansion of the anxious and grasping narcissistic self into every part of American life. The Culture of Narcissism offers an astute and urgent analysis of what we need to know in these troubled times.
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“In a society where self-interest reigns supreme, the pursuit of genuine connections becomes the rarest of treasures.”
The Culture of Narcissism
By Christopher Lasch
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Christopher Lasch (1932-1994) was an influential American historian, social critic, and author known for his incisive analysis of American culture and the complexities of modernity. His notable works include "The Culture of Narcissism: American Life in an Age of Diminishing Expectations" (1979), which critiques the pervasive self-centeredness of contemporary society, and "The Minimal Self: Psychic Survival in Troubled Times" (1984), where he explores the themes of identity and personal resilience amid societal challenges. Lasch's writing style is characterized by its depth of insight, combative tone, and an interdisciplinary approach, combining elements of history, psychology, and sociology to articulate his concerns about the implications of consumerism and individualism in American life.
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