The Art of Being

Very much an excerpt

The content here is just fine - but be warned: the book is comprised of chapters that did not get included in Fromm's classic "To Have or To Be." You are better off reading that one first, then this. That said, much of the content does stand fairly well on its own. In combination iwth "To Have or To Be," it would get 4 stars, maybe 5.

7 people found this helpful

Highly recommended

What made the experience of listening to The Art of Being the most enjoyable?

Really made it think, improve myself and become what I consider a better human being.

3 people found this helpful

Timeless

This book came just at the right time for me. A great overview and exploration of how our values around work, productivity, possessing and being have evolved over the past few 100 years. To realise how much of ones beliefs are simply the sum of relentless capital and consumerist conditioning is scary, humbling yet also freeing and empowering. I truly admire the authors conviction and learned comfort in being the lone voice in the wilderness for an era.

1 person found this helpful

Essential reading for the journey

I've really been enjoying this book, as something I dip into for a half hour or so, to give me something to expand my consciousness of my own being - and it helps make sense of the things others do too. Well narrated, well paced - I haven't had to speed it up to listen to it like so many others.
I've also listened to Fromm's Psychoanalysis which is excellent too, though more aimed at analysts and those in therapy I suspect.
While I don't necessarily agree with all of Fromm's assertions and ways of seeing things, I'm very glad to haev been exposed to him in this way and I'd recommend this anyone wanting to better understand themselves and others, it's a really thought provoking exploration.

1 person found this helpful

The speakers voice is so calming.

I loved listening to this book because the material was great but I also loved the speakers voice. So relaxing.

1 person found this helpful

Book worth reading/listening

His insight and his expressions are so relevant even in today’s 2020 societies, dare to look into someone’s point of view that hits home.

Worse than a waste of time

I read someone's review where the writer pointed out this author criticizes those who talk about things they do not have personal experience with and then he proceeds to go on and on about exactly that. I could have saved myself some money if I'd listened to this advice. He discusses spiritual practices he has analyzed from the outside and makes all kinds of judgements about them. Extremely disappointing.

4 people found this helpful