Man's Search for Meaning: The Classic Tribute to Hope from the Holocaust Book

Mans search for meaning was first published in 1946 initially in German and translated to English under the title, 'From Death Camp to Existentialism'. However do not be put off by this heavy and depressing sounding title as it really does not convey the positive and brilliance of this short work of non-fiction.As a Jewish survivor of Auschwitz and other concentration camps, Frankl believes bearing witness to the experiences makes him aware of the extent to which human beings can bear suffering and survive the most appalling conditions. Frankl is an advocate for life and the choices that always exist to find value and meaning despite suffering and circumstances. Using his personal insight he disputes nihilism, i.e. the growing phenomenon that existence has no meaning. Frankl was a professor of neurology and psychology and believes his knowledge of biological, psychological and sociological factors make him uniquely placed to argue the case for existentialism, and states:'a human being is a finite thing, and his freedom is restricted. It is not a freedom from conditions, but it is a freedom to take a stand towards those conditions.' Rather than a detailed account of the misery of the concentration camps, Frankl describes the emotional experiences as a way of describing how people succumb to or defy suffering. This experience was used following the war to develop his practice of Logotherapy which is outlined in the second half of the book.Frankl describes how suffering always has a way to derive meaning, although he points out that suffering is not a necessary prerequisite. Despite what he describes as the tragic triad of pain, guilt or death, there is always the opportunity to turn suffering into accomplishment, underpinned by an unconditional value in every person regardless of retained current usefulness. This book is easy to read in one or two sittings and contains a wisdom born of experience and academia that could be of value to every living person, but is particularly useful for anyone dwelling in a negative place in need of a reminder that life is always worth living. A new testament to our generation and highly recommended!Read More