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Because of social pressure, individualism is rejected by most people in favor of conformity. Thus the individual relies mainly upon the actions of others and neglects the meaning of his own personal life. Hence he sees his own life as meaningless and falls into the “existential vacuum” feeling inner void. Progressive automation causes increasing alcoholism, juvenile delinquency, and suicide.
Viktor E. Frankl
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the danger of losing one's individuality due to societal pressures, leading to a meaningless existence.

Viktor E. Frankl's quote explores the impact of social conformity on individual identity, suggesting that people often forsake their unique selves to fit into societal norms. This rejection of individualism can lead to feelings of emptiness and a lack of purpose, termed the 'existential vacuum.' As automation progresses, the consequences of this conformity become evident in rising rates of alcoholism, juvenile delinquency, and suicide, highlighting the existential crisis many face when they neglect their personal meaning in life.

Themes

IndividualismConformityExistentialMeaningSociety

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about the importance of self-expression and creativity.

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The more one forgives himself - by giving himself to a cause to serve or another person to love - the more human he is and the more he actualizes himself.
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