Fromm’s Secret: The Science of Being, According to Psychology and Spiritual Wisdom

What if the world’s great spiritual teachers and the latest psychological research were saying the same thing? Erich Fromm’s ‘To Have or To Be?’ suggests they are. Fromm draws on a rich tapestry of wisdom—from the Buddha’s teachings on non-attachment to Jesus’s call to love and serve others—to show that true fulfillment comes not from what we have, but from how we live and relate. Modern psychology agrees: studies on mindfulness, gratitude, and compassion demonstrate that these qualities are central to well-being.

In the being mode, life is a process of growth, creativity, and connection. Mindfulness teaches us to be present; meditation helps us let go of the need to control; creative acts—whether painting, writing, or gardening—allow us to express our true selves. Fromm’s practical suggestions include daily reflection, acts of kindness, and nurturing relationships. These are not just moral ideals—they are proven strategies for happiness and resilience.

By integrating the wisdom of the past with the science of today, Fromm offers a roadmap for transformation. The journey from having to being is not about renunciation, but about embracing life more fully. It is about finding joy in simplicity, depth in connection, and meaning in creativity. Are you ready to live the science of being?