Civilization and Its Discontents

"Civilization and Its Discontents," written by Sigmund Freud in 1930, explores the conflict between individual desires and the restrictions imposed by society. Freud argues that while civilization promotes order and security, it often suppresses primal instincts and leads to inner conflict. He discusses how this suppression can result in feelings of discontent and the struggle for personal fulfillment. The work highlights the tension between the necessities of social life and human instinct, suggesting that culture brings both benefits and psychological challenges, ultimately affecting individual happiness and societal stability.