Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl - Book Report/Review Example

Men’s Search for Meaning” Sociological Book Analysis al Affiliation “Men’s Search for Meaning” Sociological Book Analysis Introduction In the work – Men’s Search For Meaning – Frankl is able to portray a great sense of understanding, in regard to psychotherapy. This subsequently led to his developing a novel revolutionary approach, referred to as logotherapy. In better understanding his viewpoint/ perspective, one ought to have information on his life experiences. As one of the millions of Jewish populations, who suffered under Hitler’s Nazi Germany, he endured great torture and suffering. Thus it is both during and partly as a result of his suffering that he was able to formulate his new field of social analysis. Core to his theory, was/ is the belief that humanity’s primary force of motivation is the continued search for meaning. From here on, the paper will aim at better understanding the basis of his ideals, by way of critically analyzing the aforementioned work (Frankl, 1959). Victor E. Frankl: Life Experiences and Influences to His Social Analysis In better understanding the work, his life story; experiences, influences, impacts and effects, are all essential. This is due to the fact that he does base a significant amount of his narrative on his, and ultimately the larger society’s experience; especially during the tumulus 20th century. Through such contextual analysis, he is able to remarkably blend humanism and science; becoming the contemporary leader of the – Third Viennese School of Psychotherapy. Ultimately, he is viewed as the most significant of modern thinkers, in respect to the field, especially as a result of his theory of Logotherapy. Amongst the most gifted of psychiatrists, frank developed his ideals on the basis of ‘humanizing’ the greater field of psychiatry. As a fact, it is a portrayal of the story of a man who was to become a number, and eventually attain his humanism, when he became a wholesome person again. This is rooted in Hitler’s ultimate aim of dehumanizing specific human populations at the different operational concentration camps; during his Nazi reign. Logotherapy, as a novel field of Psychiatry, attempts at putting back the humanizing concept, essential in better understanding of human behavior, reasoning, ideals and influences. The basis of the book is founded on an earlier version entailed – Death-Camp to Existentialism – which essentially provides the foundation of his theory of logotherapy. To be noted is that the theory is in fact Frankl’s unique version of contemporary existential analysis (Frankl, 1959). As a prisoner, he experienced what he termed as ‘naked existence’; with his family being amongst the millions of victims of the Nazi reign of terror. Only his sister was able to survive, with the entire family perishing; in addition to the loss of all property and possession he ever had. To add to this, were the countless days of pain, anguish and suffering, where unimaginable brutality was meted out to the prisoners. Importantly, was the psychological trauma that he and millions others underwent, on an hourly basis, day by day; especially as a result of the expected hourly extermination exercises. Thus, the will to find his life worth preserving, is a fundamental influence to his later-day years, especially in the formulation of the logotherapy theory. Logotherapy: An Avenue to Greater Existentialism From his experiences, he was able to formulate a methodology, in which he viewed human conditions, and resultant traits with both compassion and a wise-sense of understanding. His approach to both therapy and theory cannot be analyzed without delving a little in his predecessor’s work. Sigmund Freud, as did Victor Frankl, both focused majorly on not only the cure, but also nature of human neuroses (Frankl, 1959). Encompassing the greater variety of human mental disorders presently found within contemporary society, both their contributions were greatly appreciated; then and even in the contemporary arena. Freud was able to find the root-causes of the distressing disorders found in Man; through the anxiety resulting from unconscious, yet conflicting motives. Frankl on his part, is able to distinguish several types of the disorder, tracing some to the suffering individual(s) failure in finding both a sense of responsibility and meaning for human existence. This is perhaps the basis of his existentialism foundation, essential in understanding his hugely successful application of his theory. Freud, does stress Man’s frustration in sexual life, with Frankl’s frustration being focused in – the ‘will-to-meaning’ concept. It is perhaps due to this core difference that many regional arenas are slowly turning away from Freud ideology, and embracing more, the concept of existential analysis; thereby being drawn to Frankl’s theory (Frankl, 1959). His Neurological Policlinic in Vienna is an establishment that has drawn global attention, with the founding of other logotherapy clinics in various regions attesting to the effectiveness of such treatment. Of core importance, is his tolerant outlook, where he welcomes kinship with other forms of existential therapy; by way of not repudiating Freud, but rather through building a concrete foundation for his theory. Human beings, when faced with the stark reality of losing everything, do undergo various phases of stages; the first being fear and humiliation. With everything being lost except his/her ‘naked life’, an individual experiences a mixed flow of apathy and emotion, which have crippling effect. Following is what Frankl describes as the great essence, which separates Man from other animals; that is the essence of life preservation. In preserving life, Man is able to find meaning and reasons for his existence. A step towards this would be the presence of a cold and detached curiosity, pertaining to one’s fate; to be swiftly followed by strategies on how to preserve the life, or what remains of it. Despite the chances of survival being slim, as a result of various aspects i.e. fear, humiliation, hunger and thirst, sickness and the deep anger vented against prevailing injustice, humanity is able to tolerate in the hope of a better future (Frankl, 1959). What essentially catalyses this inert reaction, is the presence of closely guarded images of what are most important to Mankind i.e. loved ones (kinship relations), religion, traditions, the surrounding environment (nature), and to some extent a grim sense of humor. To be noted however, is the fact that the above moments do not result in humanity’s will to survive, unless they are able to aid the individual in making greater sense of the prevailing senseless suffering. It is upon this realization that one is able to encounter the core concept of existentialism i.e. human life is about suffering, and one’s survival, entails his/ her finding meaning in such contexts. A famous quote, which Frankl admits as being in essence what his theory pertains to, is from Nietzsche – He who possesses a ‘Why’ to live, can bear with nearly any ‘How.’ This quote is dear to Frankl, as he admits within the book, especially in contexts such as those present in Hitler’s concentration camps. This is informed by the fact that under such contexts, all prevailing circumstances aim at conspiring to make the prisoners lose their hold on reality. All that is thus left is what he considers – the last of human freedoms – which essentially regards to one’s choice of attitude, in such given circumstances. Thus, this final freedom is vividly significant in Frankl’s narrative; as was its recognition by the ancient Stoic, in addition by contemporary existentialists (Frankl, 1959). Logotherapy: A Key Avenue of Treatment It is towards this aim that the work is focused on, with Frankl as a psychotherapist, gradually developing a methodology towards better understanding Man’s existence. Man’s strive, for not only survival, but also a sense of belonging, worth and respect is crucial in the theory of logotherapy. Encompassing this, is his inclination to existentialism; being neither anti-religious nor pessimistic, but rather focused on positive outcomes based on human hope and appreciation of life. This, as he attests, may be vital in understanding the perseverance spirit in man, enabling him in transcending existing predicaments; towards discovery of an ample guiding truth (Frankl, 1959). The intent of his lifelong work and mission has been towards the conveyance of ‘Life’s potential meaning’; given any prevailing circumstances or contexts of an individual’s life. Through his concrete example of such a will, has the theory been able to spread far and wide, co-existing with other aspects of existentialism. A central theme is the theory, is the admonition of pursuing success as an end unto itself. Rather as he states, this pursuit only results in human misery, where all at put at stake for one’s selfish end. As a matter of fact, he eludes that just like happiness, success cannot be pursued, but rather it must ensue from within and permeate to the rest of society. If this is reciprocated by the rest of society, human life and existence is assured, in addition to the strive for a better tomorrow of peace, tranquility and human co-existence. Success only ensues as the involuntary side-effect of an individual’s personal dedication. This is towards a greater cause, other than oneself; or as the result of one’s surrender to others in society than self. This is based on individual adherence to the inner voice, also regarded to as human conscience. In essence, when treating individuals from various forms of psychological imbalance, the above is put into consideration, necessitating change in the patient’s overall outlook. This is in regard to not only his/her life, but also on the importance and functionality of the whole human populace and environment (Frankl, 1959). Reference Frankl, V.E. (1959/84). Men’s Search for Meaning. Simon Schuster, Inc & N.Y.: Washington Square Press/ Pocket Books Publishers. Read More