The Art Of Loving

Fromm examines how the structure of modern Western capitalism hampers genuine love. He argues that authentic love has become rare in contemporary society, replaced by various forms of pseudo-love.

Fromm begins by analyzing capitalism’s foundation on market principles. In capitalistic societies, human energy and skills become commodities exchanged under market conditions. This economic structure creates a value system that places inanimate objects (capital) above human life and labor. As capitalism developed, it produced increasing centralization of capital, with large enterprises growing and smaller ones diminishing. Ownership became separated from management, with bureaucracies emerging in both corporate and labor contexts.

Modern capitalism requires individuals who cooperate in large numbers, desire increasing consumption, and possess standardized tastes that can be easily influenced. Though feeling supposedly independent, these individuals willingly follow commands and fit into social machinery without resistance. Fromm asserts that this creates alienation—from oneself, from others, and from nature. Humans become commodities, experiencing their life energy as an investment requiring maximum profit in existing market conditions.

According to Fromm, contemporary society offers escapes from the resultant loneliness. These include bureaucratic work routines, amusement industry products, and the constant acquisition of new possessions. Modern happiness consists primarily of consumption—of products, entertainment, and experiences—treating the world as an object for appetite.