Anxiety Quote by Sigmund Freud
“Men have gained control over the forces of nature to such an extent that with their help they would have no difficulty exterminating one another to the last man. They know this, and hence comes a large part of their current unrest, their unhappiness and their mood of anxiety.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Civilization and Its Discontents, 1930
Human mastery over nature creates the capacity for self‑destruction, fueling collective anxiety.
In simple terms: Power over nature can lead to self‑destruction and anxiety.
Key Takeaway
Beware the dangers of unchecked power.
Themes
power
anxiety
self‑destruction
civilization
Mood
concerned
serious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- political policy
- environmental crisis
- military escalation
- mental health
Key Concepts
technology
psychology
existential risk
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies channel power responsibly?
- What safeguards can reduce existential risk?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook human resilience and cooperation.
