The standard edition of the complete psychological works of Sigmund Freud. Vol. 21, 1927-1931, The future of an illusion, Civilization and its discontents and other works

Volume 21 of Freud's Complete Psychological Works encompasses a selection of pivotal writings penned between 1927 and 1931, a time marked by both personal and professional challenges for Freud. Among the key works included in this collection are "The Future of an Illusion" and "Civilization and Its Discontents", two of Freud's most influential essays. In "The Future of an Illusion," Freud critically examines the role of religion within the social fabric, proposing that it is a set of illusions without scientific basis, yet providing psychological solace. This scrutiny of religious belief is a cornerstone in understanding Freud's views on the tension between the individual psyche and collective social structures.

"Civilization and Its Discontents," often regarded as one of Freud's masterpieces, explores the inherent conflict between the quest for individual freedom and the demands of social conformity imposed by civilization. Freud delves into the fundamental dichotomy of human existence: the pursuit of instinctual desires against the need for societal order and cultural development. Other works in this volume supplement these central themes, offering a comprehensive view into Freud's psychoanalytic frameworks and their application to cultural and societal phenomena.

This volume reveals the depth and complexity of Freud's thought particularly as it pertains to societal structures and the unconscious mind. Key takeaways include:

• Freud's elucidation of the friction between human instincts and societal expectations.
• His analysis of religion as a cultural construct offering psychological comfort yet posing an obstacle to rational inquiry.
• The exploration of human dissatisfaction in the face of cultural and social progress.
• Insights into Freud's belief in the inevitability of human neuroses given the dichotomy between innate desires and social regulation.

"The liberty of the individual is no gift of civilization. It was greatest before there was any civilization."

"Religious doctrines are all illusions; they do not admit of proof, and no one can be compelled to consider them as true or to believe in them."

This volume is indispensable not only for those interested in the intricacies of human psychology but also for anyone seeking to understand the cultural forces shaping human existence. Freud's work presents a paradigm-shifting perspective on the intersection of individual desires and collective social norms, offering insights that are as relevant today as they were in the early 20th century. By unraveling the psychological underpinnings of civilization, Freud invites readers to critically reflect on the constructs that govern human lives.

The book's exploration of religion, culture, and innate human instincts greatly impacted both psychology and broader intellectual thought. Freud's daring confrontation with the illusions sustaining civilization challenges readers to consider the psychological basis of their own beliefs and societal structures. As a key text in Freud's oeuvre, this volume remains a fundamental resource for scholars, practitioners, and anyone intrigued by the underlying motivations and conflicts that define the human condition.