“Most of us hoped to be able to trust. When we were little we did not yet know the human invention of the lie - not only that of lying with words but that of lying with one's voice, one's gesture, one's eyes, one's facial expression. How should the child be prepared for this specifically human ingenuity: the lie? Most of us are awakened, some more and some less brutally, to the fact that people often do not mean what they say or say the opposite of what they mean. And not only "people," but the very people we trusted most - our parents, teachers, leaders.”

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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) →
"Most of us hoped to be able to trust. When we were little we did not…" — Erich Fromm | Daily Quotes