The Denial of Death

Ernest Becker's The Denial of Death - on how not our fear, but our complete denial of death existing leads to the weirdest outcomes in our society

on HN, 2020

Winner of the Pulitzer prize in 1974 and the culmination of a life's work, The Denial of Death is Ernest Becker's brilliant and impassioned answer to the "why" of human existence. In bold contrast to the predominant Freudian school of thought, Becker tackles the problem of the vital lie -- man's refusal to acknowledge his own mortality.

on HN, 2019

It's about how death shapes life and human society. Completely changed how I view life and the world around me. Also launched me on a path that's resulted in me successfully combating depression and anxiety (and no, it's not a self-help book). It's a fascinating read.

on HN, 2014

Yes, this book changed how I think about death, and life so much.

on HN, 2018

"The denial of death" by Ernest Becker; brings life into a perspective.

on HN, 2020

I was not prepared to read this book when I did, and its ideas have haunted me since. They have kept me awake many a night.

on HN, 2018