Escape from Evil – Ernest Becker – 1975, Free Press
Escape from Evil: A Psychological Exploration of Human Terror
Ernest Becker’s Escape from Evil, published posthumously in 1975, delves into the psychological underpinnings of human evil and the inherent terror of existence. Building upon the ideas presented in his earlier work, The Denial of Death, Becker expands his psychoanalytic and cultural critique to explore the mechanisms by which individuals and societies attempt to shield themselves from the awareness of their own mortality. The book examines how the ‘evil’ we perceive in others is often a projection of our own repressed fears and anxieties.
Historical / Cultural Context
Becker’s work emerged during a period of significant social and political upheaval, including the Cold War and increasing anxieties about nuclear annihilation. His analysis responds to the atrocities of the 20th century – the Holocaust, world wars – seeking to understand the psychological roots of such widespread violence. It also connects to broader intellectual currents of existentialism, psychoanalysis (particularly the work of Freud and Otto Rank), and the study of mythology. Becker situated his arguments within a critical perspective on Western culture, arguing that its emphasis on individualism and rationalism inadvertently exacerbated existential anxieties.
Who This Book Is For
This work is best suited for readers with an interest in depth psychology, particularly psychoanalytic thought. It also appeals to those interested in the intersections of psychology, culture, and the problem of evil. While demanding, the book offers significant insights for students of religion, philosophy, and cultural studies. It is not a light read, and familiarity with basic psychoanalytic concepts would be beneficial.
Further Reading
- The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker: Becker’s foundational work, establishing his theory of terror management.
- Man and His Symbols by Carl Jung: An exploration of archetypes and the collective unconscious, relevant to Becker’s discussion of symbolic defenses.
- The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus: A classic existentialist text addressing the absurdity of life and the search for meaning.
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