HUMANISTIC SOCIALISM OF ERICH FROMM: PHILOSOPHICAL NOTES

Abstract

The attempt to construct a theory of an efficient society has a long tradition. This article examines such an attempt by the famous philosopher and social psychologist E. Fromm. The specificity of this approach lies in the fact that E. Fromm is trying to link together the elements of Marxist and Freudian theory when criticizing modern capitalism. E. Fromm does not accept capitalism as a social system, because this society alienates a person's abilities and individuality, turning him into a functioning automaton. The emphasis is also on criticism of the ever-increasing consumerism, the colossal waste of natural resources and environmental problems. E. Fromm sees in the destructive consequences of the capitalist mode of production a defect of a social nature. Therefore, the question of the reasonable coexistence of man and nature remains the main question of the survival of mankind. E. Fromm associated the resolution of such issues with the development of the concept of humanistic socialism, which, in his opinion, can not only resolve the emerging problems, but also fully reveal human potential. However, the construction of humanistic socialism is carried out not on a revolutionary basis, but on the evolutionary transformation of capitalism, while denying the class struggle and the leading role of the working class. The main goal of socialism is the liberation of man.