The book consists of two essays that explore the psychological effects of war on individuals and society. The first essay examines the disillusionment of modern civilization in the face of brutal violence and destruction, arguing that people's innate aggression and primal instincts are unleashed during wartime. The second essay discusses the concept of death and how it is perceived by humans, suggesting that people have a tendency to deny or repress the reality of their own mortality, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear.
By Sigmund Freud · First published 1915 · Genre: Philosophical Essay, Psychological Analysis, Sociopolitical Commentary · 2 chapters