To Have Or To Be? by Erich Fromm Summary

To Have or to Be? critiques consumerism and proposes shifting from a materialistic "having" mode to a fulfillment-focused "being" mode. Fromm argues that modern society prioritizes possessions and status over authentic self-expression, leading to alienation and environmental harm. He explores how embracing creativity, mindfulness, and interconnectedness can create a healthier, more equitable world.

This book suits readers interested in philosophy, psychology, and societal change. It’s valuable for those questioning materialism’s impact on mental health, relationships, or environmental sustainability. Academics, therapists, and activists will appreciate Fromm’s blend of psychoanalysis and social critique.

Yes—its critique of consumerism remains urgent amid climate crises and rising mental health issues. Fromm’s 1976 insights into alienation resonate in today’s digital age, offering a framework for reevaluating success and happiness beyond material wealth.

• Having mode: Defining identity through possessions, competition, and control.
• Being mode: Finding meaning via creativity, love, and shared experiences.
• Healing society: Transitioning from exploitation to ecological stewardship and communal responsibility.

The "being mode" emphasizes introspection, authenticity, and connection. Instead of chasing external validation, individuals cultivate self-awareness, artistic expression, and empathy. Fromm contrasts this with the "having mode," where worth is tied to owning objects or dominating others.

Fromm argues capitalism fuels greed, loneliness, and environmental destruction by equating self-worth with consumption. He warns that profit-driven systems prioritize growth over human well-being, creating a cycle of dissatisfaction and ecological harm.

• “I am what I have”: A mantra of the having mode, reducing identity to possessions.
• “Greed is a bottomless pit”: Highlights the emptiness of endless consumption.
• “The pleasure of sharing versus the futility of hoarding”: Advocates community over individualism.

Fromm encourages replacing comparison with self-acceptance, materialism with creativity, and isolation with collaboration. Examples include practicing gratitude, pursuing hobbies for joy (not status), and fostering relationships based on mutual growth.

Critics argue Fromm’s solutions are overly idealistic, lacking concrete policy steps. Some find his rejection of Freudian drives too dismissive, while others note his analysis overlooks systemic barriers like poverty or discrimination.

Both books analyze societal alienation, but Escape from Freedom focuses on authoritarianism, while To Have or to Be? targets consumer culture. The latter offers more actionable self-reflection tools, whereas the former delves into political psychology.

Fromm links materialism to anxiety and depression, suggesting the "being mode" reduces stress by prioritizing inner fulfillment over external validation. Therapists often use his ideas to address perfectionism and social isolation.

Fromm envisions a shift from exploitation to sustainability, where communities value cooperation, art, and ecological balance. This involves redefining progress beyond GDP to include well-being and environmental health.