“If other people do not understand our behavior—so what? Their request that we must only do what they understand is an attempt to dictate to us. If this is being "asocial" or "irrational" in their eyes, so be it. Mostly they resent our freedom and our courage to be ourselves. We owe nobody an explanation or an accounting, as long as our acts do not hurt or infringe on them. How many lives have been ruined by this need to "explain," which usually implies that the explanation be "understood," i.e. approved. Let your deeds be judged, and from your deeds, your real intentions, but know that a free person owes an explanation only to himself—to his reason and his conscience—and to the few who may have a justified claim for explanation.”

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About Erich Fromm

German psychoanalyst and social philosopher of the mid-20th century, Erich Fromm was a leading figure in humanistic psychology. His work bridges psychology and sociology, exploring themes of love, freedom, and the human condition through concepts like "escape from freedom" and "the art of loving." He remains influential for his critiques of capitalism and his humanistic approach to mental health.

More from Erich Fromm (145 quotes) →
"If other people do not understand our behavior—so what? Their request…" — Erich Fromm | Daily Quotes