In the early twentieth century, the idea that man can and should be self-reliant and enterprising, the so-called Protestant ethic, was a major factor in the development of modern science, technology, business, education and organization. It spurred the members of the middle class to invention, discovery and achievement.
Originally published in 1959 and the previous few decades had seen the decline of this ethic and the emergence of a new ideal for man, one which took its clue from Freudian psychology. The result was the Freudian ethic, the idea that man cannot and should not be expected to be provident, self-reliant and venturesome, that he must and should be supported, protected and socially maintained.
The author shows how the Freudian ethic developed and how it captivated the average American – and many Europeans – that there may be a dangerously large reduction in initiative, and this at a time when the need for inventors, scientists, enterprising businessmen and social innovators was greater than ever if the West was to continue in its dominant position.
The author shows how the Freudian ethic was being spread through the permissive home and the progressive school; how it was manifest in the stress on adjustment and security; how it was used to condone crime and social incompetence; and how it was reflected in the style of life of the middle class, in modern industrial guildism and in political maternalism.
Though addressed primarily to Americans, the book undoubtedly had its lessons for British readers. As incisive as it is brilliant, as carefully constructed as it is profound and troubling The Freudian Ethic is a fascinating and important study.