Tod Sloan – författare

Through readings of 15 life-history interviews, this book creates a framework for the interpretation of dilemmas and decisions. As each individual recounts a specific instance when a life choice was necessary, the supporting analysis reveals the framework that triggered the sense that a turning point had been reached. The author''s basic premise is that common sense and mainstream psychology fail to enlighten us about what is actually involved in major life choices. He argues that individuals tend to make decisions that are not in their best interests and that these decisions tend to reinforce the sociocultural structures that were instrumental in the creation of their dilemmas.

Through readings of 15 life-history interviews, this book creates a framework for the interpretation of dilemmas and decisions. As each individual recounts a specific instance when a life choice was necessary, the supporting analysis reveals the framework that triggered the sense that a turning point had been reached. The author''s basic premise is that common sense and mainstream psychology fail to enlighten us about what is actually involved in major life choices. He argues that individuals tend to make decisions that are not in their best interests and that these decisions tend to reinforce the sociocultural structures that were instrumental in the creation of their dilemmas.

What are the psychological problems caused by modernization? How can we minimize its negative effects?

Modernization has brought many material benefits to us, yet we are constantly told how unhappy we are: crime, divorce, suicide, depression and anxiety are rampant. How can this contradiction be reconciled?

Damaged Life, originally published in 1996, presents a powerful and progressive analysis of modernity’s impact on the psyche. Tod Sloan develops an integrated theory of the self in society by combining perspectives on personality development and socio-historical processes to explore our complex response to modernization. He discusses the implications of postmodern theory for psychology and proposes concrete responses to address the issue of mass emotional suffering. His book should be read not only by those working within psychology and related disciplines such as sociology and social policy, but also by anyone seeking enlightenment about the predicament of the self in contemporary society.

What are the psychological problems caused by modernization? How can we minimize its negative effects?

Modernization has brought many material benefits to us, yet we are constantly told how unhappy we are: crime, divorce, suicide, depression and anxiety are rampant. How can this contradiction be reconciled?

Damaged Life, originally published in 1996, presents a powerful and progressive analysis of modernity’s impact on the psyche. Tod Sloan develops an integrated theory of the self in society by combining perspectives on personality development and socio-historical processes to explore our complex response to modernization. He discusses the implications of postmodern theory for psychology and proposes concrete responses to address the issue of mass emotional suffering. His book should be read not only by those working within psychology and related disciplines such as sociology and social policy, but also by anyone seeking enlightenment about the predicament of the self in contemporary society.