In 'The Denial of Death,' Ernest Becker explores the profound human fear of mortality and the ways people cope with this existential dread. Through a blend of psychology, philosophy, and anthropology, he argues that much of human behavior is motivated by the desire to transcend death, leading to cultural and personal constructs that deny our mortality. The book challenges readers to confront the reality of death and rethink their values in the face of impermanence. Becker's insights reveal how our denial shapes society and individual lives, urging a deeper understanding of what it means to live authentically. This thought-provoking masterpiece invites readers to grapple with the ultimate questions of existence: how to live and die meaningfully.
By Ernest Becker
Published: 1997
"The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time."
Addresses the issue of mortality discussing how humans universally share a fear of death and examines the theories of leading thinkers on this subject including Freud, Rank, and Kierkegaard.
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“The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.”
The Denial of Death
By Ernest Becker
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ernest Becker (1924-1974) was an American cultural anthropologist and interdisciplinary thinker known for his profound explorations of human behavior and existential themes. His most notable work, 'The Denial of Death,' won the Pulitzer Prize for Nonfiction in 1974 and examines how the fear of death influences culture and personal identity. Becker's writing blends psychology, philosophy, and anthropology, often employing a clear, accessible style that resonates with both academic and general audiences. His other significant works include 'The Escape from Evil' and 'The Birth and Death of Meaning,' which further delve into the human psyche and the quest for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.
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