Freud and Adler on Man and Society By NIVA GHOSH

Book Description - 

Human nature encompasses two key aspects: the individual and the social. These aspects often find themselves in conflict, yet they can also work in harmony. The development of human personality arises from this interplay of conflict and cooperation. The relationship between man and society is fundamentally tied to these two dimensions of human nature. At birth, a person is primarily driven by instinct, particularly ego-driven instincts that are selfishly motivated, seeking immediate gratification. Over time, these instincts are gradually supplanted by altruistic or social motives. Thus, despite being born with primarily egoistic tendencies, individuals become socialized through the pressures of their surrounding society.

This brings us to the question: what does socialization truly mean? According to Watson, socialization is "the process of teaching the individual, through various relationships, educational institutions, and social controls, how to adjust to living within their society." It involves adopting the customs and traditions prevalent in society, facilitated by the mutual interaction between the individual and the community.

No one can escape the diverse influences of society. A child cannot develop a well-rounded personality—defined as the ability to adapt smoothly to their environment—without cooperation, the influence of others, and observation of societal behaviors. When it comes to instinct, there is little distinction between higher and lower beings; rather, it is human rationality that elevates man above other creatures. This rational faculty encompasses self-consciousness, which is fully realized only through interactions with other members of society.