Erich Fromm's Disobedience As A Psychological And Moral Problem

“A person can become free through acts of disobedience by learning to say no to power” (Erich Fromm 577). Erich Fromm is a popular, distinguished psychoanalyst, philosopher, historian, sociologist, and writer. He studied the works of Frued and Marx closely as he shared his thoughts with the world. In the article, “Disobedience as a Psychological and Moral Problem”, Fromm closely examines human history and why people act the way they do. Many of Fromm’s theories relate back to why humans choose to obey or disobey an authority. Heteronomous obedience is the obedience to another person, institution, or power instead of listening to oneself; submission. Autonomous obedience is the obedience to the person's own will, reason, or judgment; act of

Authoritarian Conscience relates to acting on fear of disappointing or disobeying an authority. However, the Humanistic Conscience defines acting on individual instincts; trusting that the person will make the right choices and do what is best. Rational Authority is when a person decides to listen to an authority out of free will and acts with reason. Though, Irrational Authority is when a person is forced or persuaded to accept commands from an authority. Society demonstrates both human nature and obedience to power.
George Orwell, well-educated and known author of many famous novels, puts these theories into practice in his short story “Shooting an Elephant”. He tells the story of his time as a police officer in a foreign country. When an elephant got loose in the town leaving many people dead, it was his job to make a decision about what to do. He explains his thought

Valeriya Safronova and Joanna Nikas are New York Time authors and editors. In an article they wrote together, they explain the reasons behind why students choose to stand or sit during pledges or anthems. Furthermore, they use real students and stories as examples to state their case. 17 year old Naylah Williams, highschool cheerleader who knelt during football games, is used as a demonstration of Humanistic Conscience. For example, Williams explains, “Changing someone’s view on something isn’t easy to do. I’m happy with it. I’m proud of myself for standing up for something I believe in, even if other people don’t” (Safranova). Williams explains the reason she kneels for the flag or anthem is due to her own personal choice. She states that even though other people do not agree with her decision, she will follow her own conscience to decide what is right. This shows that the Humanistic Conscience is used to make decisions in everyday life. However, some people choose to stand for the flag using their Authoritarian Conscience to decide whether or not it is right to sit during the pledge or anthem. High School student Trenton Faulkner states, “I think the kids kneeling in high schools are following a trend. There are only a few who will actually dedicate their time to this subject. All the kids like to follow the trends” (Safronova). Faulkner analyzes that the reason that people are kneeling during