How to Read Ernest Becker

Born in 1924, Ernest Becker was a cultural anthropologist and interdisciplinary scientific thinker and writer. He is best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning book, “The Denial of Death,” in which he argues that human civilization is essentially an elaborate, symbolic defense mechanism against the knowledge of our mortality.

1. The Denial of Death

Description: In this work, Becker posits that all human action is taken to ignore or avoid the inevitability of death. He delves into how the fear of death is a primary motivator behind many of our behaviors on a psychological, emotional, and cultural level.

Review: Becker’s exploration of the human fear of death is both profound and thought-provoking. Though the book is philosophical and abstract at times, it provides a fascinating lens through which to view human behavior and society.

Reason to Read: This book is a compelling read for those interested in a deep dive into human motivation. It’s a profound exploration of the lengths to which humans will go to avoid or ignore the inevitability of death.

2. Escape from Evil

Description: In this book, Becker expands on the concepts he introduced in “The Denial of Death,” arguing that humans create and adhere to cultural norms and belief systems as a defense against the knowledge of our mortality.

Review: Building on the ideas from his earlier work, Becker delves deeper into how the human fear of death shapes societies and cultures. While not a light read, this book is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.

Reason to Read: If you found “The Denial of Death” interesting and are eager to explore these concepts further, this book is a must-read. It provides a unique perspective on the way societies function and the motivations behind human behavior.

Becker’s work has had a lasting impact on our understanding of human motivation and the psychology of behavior. His work continues to be highly regarded and widely discussed in the fields of psychology and philosophy.

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