Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor E Frankl – Book Review
Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl is definitely a must read book. It is a classic work that has touched the lives of many readers. It was on my TBR list for a long time, and then finally when I found it on audible I decided to hear it.
Viktor Emil Frankl was an Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist who is best known for his work on the psychological concept of logotherapy.
“Man’s Search for Meaning,” is based on his experiences as a prisoner in the Nazi concentration camps during World War II. In the book, Frankl describes how he was able to find meaning and purpose in his life even in the most difficult and trying circumstances.
Frankl’s concept of logotherapy is based on the belief that the primary motivational force in human life is the search for meaning and purpose. He argued that this search for meaning is what gives people the strength to endure even the most difficult and trying circumstances.
One of the key ideas in the book is the idea that we have the ability to find meaning in our lives even in the face of suffering and adversity. Frankl believed that this is possible because meaning is something that we create for ourselves, rather than something that is given to us by external circumstances.
Frankl’s writing is deeply personal and moving, as he shares his own experiences in the concentration camps and the lessons he learned about finding meaning in suffering. He also introduces his concept of logotherapy, a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals find meaning in their lives.
Man’s search for meaning is considered one of the most influential works in psychiatry post Freud.
The initial part of the book with detailed description of his and other prisoners experiences in the concentration camp is deeply moving. The way the prisoners were treated sent chills up my spine. It is beyond imagination that someone could go through and endure that kind of torture.
The second part focuses on logotherapy. It tends to get technical in psychiatric terms at times, but there is so much to take away for each of us. It gives a better understanding to what really encompasses the meaning of life and how to find one even in face of adversity.
- The search for meaning is a fundamental human need. Frankl argues that this is the primary driving force in human life, and that we are constantly seeking to find meaning in our experiences and circumstances.
- Meaning can be found in love, work, and personal responsibility. Frankl suggests that these three areas are key sources of meaning in life, and that focusing on these things can help us find purpose and fulfillment.
- Meaning can be discovered through self-transcendence. Frankl introduces the concept of logotherapy, which suggests that we can find meaning by going beyond our own individual selves and focusing on something greater than ourselves.
- Attitude is crucial in finding meaning. Frankl emphasizes the importance of having the right attitude and mindset when seeking meaning in life. He suggests that we can choose to find meaning even in difficult circumstances by adopting a positive and accepting attitude.
- Suffering too has a purpose and can be a source of meaning. but that does not imply that one go in suffering if one can avoid it.
Overall, “Man’s Search for Meaning” is a must-read for anyone seeking to better understand the human experience and find purpose in their own life. It’s a deeply moving and inspiring book that will leave a lasting impact.
