he secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less” — Socrates.

The Pakistani society is suffering from a collective sense of depression, exacerbated by a pervasive sense of hopelessness about its future. Political instability, chaos in the economic realm, deterioration in the law and order and strictures on freedom of expression have resulted in collective pessimism.

An overwhelming majority of the youth aspires, therefore, to flee the country. They see no attractive prospects here. This situation necessitates a thorough analysis of the underlying causes and potential remedies.

It is crucial to incorporate some of Erich Fromm’s prescriptions for a sane society into the national discourse and curricula at the higher education level. By doing so, we can foster a more profound understanding of the importance of individual well-being, social justice and mental health. Such an approach emphasises the significance of freedom, love, brotherhood, reason and critical thinking in building a healthier and more cohesive society. The postulates discussed in the following lines are my subjective understanding of Fromm’s book which I consider is a necessary read for the Pakistani intelligentsia.

Erich Seligmann Fromm (1900-1980) was a German-American social psychologist, psychoanalyst, sociologist, humanist philosopher and democratic socialist who explored the concept of a “sane society” in his influential work. In his book, The Sane Society, Fromm outlines several key characteristics that define a healthy, functioning society.

These traits are grounded in his humanist ideology and psychoanalytic principles, emphasising the importance of individual well-being, freedom and the capacity for love and meaningful relationships. This conceptualisation aligns closely with the classical perception derived from egalitarianism, underscoring the necessity of freedom punctuated by an inclusive ethos.

A sane society encourages its members to be productive. It foster creativity and pursuit of meaningful work. People should engage in activities that allow them to express themselves and contribute to the community. A focus on consumption and passive entertainment, Fromm argues, can lead to alienation and a sense of meaninglessness.

Analysing the Pakistani society through the lens of Erich Fromm’s concept of a sane society reveals both areas of alignment and significant challenges. This analysis incorporates the principles of egalitarianism, emphasising the necessity of freedom and inclusivity.

In Pakistan, there is considerable focus on education and professional achievements. This aligns with Fromm’s idea of a productive society. However, the high unemployment rate, underemployment and lack of opportunities can hinder the productive potential of many individuals, leading to frustration and disillusionment. The emphasis on traditional career paths rather than creative and innovative pursuits limits the realisation of a truly productive orientation.

Fromm believed that a healthy society promotes genuine love and brotherhood among its members. This involves caring for others, developing deep connections and fostering empathy and compassion. Empathy, compassion and modesty are the key constituents of a sane society.

Love, in this context, is not just the romantic feeling; it extends to all human relationships, including family, friends and the broader community. Pakistani society has strong familial and community bonds, resonating with Fromm’s emphasis on love and brotherhood. Extended families and close-knit communities provide support and a sense of belonging.

In the past, the society drew on its sense of love and social mutuality preached by popular Sufi denominations. However, in the era of socio-political modernity, sectarian violence, ethnic conflicts and social fragmentation present significant challenges to achieving broad social harmony and universal brotherhood.

These conflicts undermine the inclusive ethos and the potential for a cohesive society. The mode of meaningful exchange among the stakeholders, in Pakistan, seems to have dried out.

A sane society values reason and critical thinking, encouraging individuals to think independently and question established norms and authority. This trait supports the development of personal autonomy and the ability to make informed decisions.

The education system in Pakistan often emphasises rote learning over critical thinking and creativity. Although there are pockets of progress, the general lack of emphasis on independent thought and inquiry limits the development of a society that values reason and critical thinking. This impedes the cultivation of personal autonomy and the capacity for informed decision-making. That makes importance of liberal arts seminal in the educational institutions.

Fromm emphasises the importance of true freedom, which he defines as the ability to realise one’s potential and make choices that align with one’s values and aspirations. This differs from the concept of freedom as mere absence of restraint, highlighting the importance of positive freedom — the freedom to be and to do.

There is limited political and social freedom in Pakistan as many individuals face restrictions based on gender, religion and socioeconomic status. Issues like gender discrimination, religious intolerance and lack of freedom of expression in certain contexts undermine the concept of true freedom as envisioned by Fromm. These restrictions also contradict the egalitarian ideal of universal freedom and equal opportunity for all individuals. The lack of individual freedom in Pakistan, stifles personal growth and societal progress.

A sane society is characterised by social justice and equality. Fromm argues that significant economic disparities and social inequalities lead to resentment, conflict and a breakdown of social cohesion. A just society ensures that all members have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Social justice remains a significant challenge in Pakistan. Vast disparities in wealth, education and healthcare access contribute to social unrest and dissatisfaction. Fromm’s ideal of a society with minimal inequality is far from realised in Pakistan. Corruption and systemic inefficiencies exacerbate these issues.

The absence of social justice hinders the development of a stable and equitable society. The socio-cultural ethos must reflect in policy formulation and its execution and ensure that justice is not just an ideal but also a practical reality.

People need a sense of identity and belonging to feel secure and valued in their community. A sane society provides its members with a shared sense of purpose and belonging, enabling them to connect with their cultural and social heritage while also fostering individual growth and self-realisation.

Pakistanis generally have a strong sense of social and cultural identity, often reinforced by religion and traditions. However, internal divisions along ethnic and sectarian lines can undermine a cohesive national identity and lead to conflicts. These divisions challenge the creation of a shared sense of purpose and belonging, essential for societal harmony and individual self-realisation.

Fromm stresses that a healthy society supports the mental health and well-being of its members. This involves creating environments that reduce stress, promote mental health and provide support for those struggling with psychological issues. Mental health is a growing concern in Pakistan. Its awareness is limited and the resources available to address it are often inadequate.

Societal pressures, economic challenges and political instability contribute to widespread mental health issues. The stigma surrounding mental health prevents many from seeking help, highlighting a gap in the societal support structures Fromm deemed essential for a sane society. Addressing mental health is crucial for fostering a supportive environment that promotes overall well-being.

While Pakistani society exhibits some traits that align with Fromm’s vision of a sane society, such as strong community bonds and a sense of identity, significant challenges remain. Addressing issues like social justice, true freedom, critical thinking and mental health is crucial for creating a saner and healthier society. Integrating egalitarian principles that emphasise freedom and inclusivity is essential for realising a society where all individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

The writer is a professor in the Faculty of Liberal Arts at the Beaconhouse National University, Lahore