Toward a humanized technology: a reinterpretation of Erich Fromm’ s humanistic peace psychology
Open accessAbstract
In contemporary society where technology has advanced significantly, the issues of war and peace are not only political or economic but also deeply tied to the structure of human psychology. Based on Erich Fromm’s humanistic psychology, this paper reexamines the adaptability and framework of peace psychology in the technological era. First, the paper explores the psychological roots of war, emphasizing that deep psychological mechanisms such as aggressiveness, idolization, and emotional numbness are key drivers of war. Second, the paper distinguishes between the concepts of “negative peace” and “positive peace,” proposing that positive peace should encompass positive psychological resources such as justice, love, and freedom, rather than merely the cessation of violent conflict. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the emotional coldness, numbness, and the aestheticization of war in the media brought about by technological alienation, revealing the erosion of the psychological foundation for peace by these technologies and proposing “humanized technology” as a solution. By emphasizing that technology should serve humanity’s empathy, creativity, and freedom, rather than alienation and control, this paper provides new perspectives for the theoretical innovation and practical development of contemporary peace psychology. The core contribution of this paper lies in the interdisciplinary integration of Fromm’s peace psychology with contemporary technological advancements, presenting strategies to address the impact of technology on individuals and society. Finally, the article provides important topics for future empirical research, including the psychological effects of emotional detachment and digital warfare, peace education in algorithmic environments, and the psychological and ethical studies of artificial intelligence and neural technologies.
Verified 2026-11-04 · 2 references not checked yet
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Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
This conceptual article reinterprets Erich Fromm's humanistic peace psychology for the technological age, arguing that contemporary technologies (mediated war, lethal autonomous weapons, surveillance, brain–computer interfaces) erode the psychological foundations of peace through alienation, emotional numbing, and dehumanization. It proposes "humanized technology"—socio-technical systems oriented toward relatedness, agency, and moral responsibility—as a normative framework for peace psychology.
Key findings
- Fromm's framework holds that war is not merely political or economic but driven by deep psychological mechanisms—aggressiveness, idolization, and emotional numbness—and that violence is not innate but a product of specific psychological and social conditions (Fromm, 1973).
- The paper distinguishes "negative peace" (absence of open violent conflict) from "positive peace," which Fromm aligns with the Hebrew "shalom" and defines as harmonious cooperation, justice, and full human development; only positive peace is argued to be sustainable.
- Technological alienation—war packaged as entertainment, algorithmic dehumanization in lethal autonomous weapons, surveillance-driven erosion of freedom, and BCI-induced identity diffusion—is argued to erode empathy and moral restraint, weakening the psychological basis for peace.
- "Humanized technology" is defined not as a technological fix but as humanistic design and governance commitments (supporting relatedness, enabling agency, preserving moral responsibility), distinct from prevailing human-centered AI programs that foreground usability and safety.
Methods
- Design: conceptual/theoretical reconstruction of Fromm's humanistic peace psychology, integrating it with contemporary technology-and-war debates; the paper explicitly describes itself as a "conceptual study."
- Data/sample: no empirical data collected; the analysis draws on Fromm's primary texts (e.g., *Escape from Freedom* 1941, *The Sane Society* 1955, *The Revolution of Hope* 1968, *The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness* 1973) and recent secondary scholarship (2020–2025).
- Analysis: interpretive synthesis organized into four sections—Fromm's basic peace-psychological assumptions, negative/positive peace, emerging technological threats, and a Frommian account of humanized technology—with proposed implications for future research and practice.
Limitations
- The paper does not state explicit limitations. (Not stated in the paper.)
- Evident from the text: the study is purely conceptual with no empirical validation; its claims about technology's psychological effects (e.g., numbing, dehumanization) are asserted through theoretical synthesis rather than tested, and the authors themselves call for future empirical work on emotional detachment in automated warfare, peace education in algorithmic environments, and the psychological ethics of AI and neurotechnologies.
- Evident from the text: the framework's normative prescriptions (e.g., "humanized technology" design commitments) are not operationalized into measurable criteria, though the authors state they "can be evaluated empirically and refined through interdisciplinary work."
Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.
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Cites
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Claims the paper makes
24 of 109 cited sources checked · 3 supported · 0 flagged · accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
The diffusion of algorithmically curated platforms, militarized artificial intelligence, and networked surveillance has altered how conflict is waged, represented, and psychologically processed.
“Across the early 2020s, the diffusion of algorithmically curated platforms, militarized artificial intelligence (AI), and networked surveillance has altered how conflict is waged, represented, and psychologically processed.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 2 sources checked- cites Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022 source
The “UGC and conflict journalism” section (page not provided) says algorithmically shaped platforms privilege fast, emotional content and have changed how conflict is reported. It does not establish that militarized AI or networked surveillance changed how conflict is waged, or that these technologies changed how conflict is psychologically processed. (LLM, conf=0.86)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured - cites Zhan, 2022
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Rests on an assumption: Technological acceleration has become a defining feature of contemporary social life and, increasingly, of contemporary war.
- Premisecitation
In humans, reactive aggression is amplified by consciousness, symbolism, and social identity.
“However, in humans, this aggression is amplified by consciousness, symbolism, and social identity (Boccadoro et al., 2021).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Boccadoro et al., 2021 source
The Introduction describes reactive aggression as a response to provocation, and the Abstract reports that it increased with provocation. Our copy does not address whether consciousness, symbolism, or social identity amplify it; searches for those terms and related cognitive and social processes found no supporting passage. No page numbers are available in the indexed copy. (LLM, conf=0.75)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Rests on an assumption: Humans can be manipulated to feel that their “survival interests” or “core values” are threatened, even if these threats are not real.
- Premisecitation
Contemporary violence extends beyond interstate warfare to terrorism, racial conflict, and discontent rooted in widening inequalities.
“Contemporary violence extends beyond interstate warfare to terrorism, racial conflict, and discontent rooted in widening inequalities (Cheliotis, 2011).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Cheliotis, 2011 source
In “Narcissism as an Antecedent of Authoritarian Violence” (page unavailable), Cheliotis links socioeconomic insecurity and public dissatisfaction to violence directed at weaker out-groups, and also discusses participation in wars. The passages do not establish the claimed range of contemporary violence—particularly terrorism and racial conflict—or say that inequalities are widening. (LLM, conf=0.82)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
In the BCI context, blurred boundaries between 'self' and 'machine' can destabilize identity formation, producing self-doubt and estrangement.
“In the BCI context, blurred boundaries between “self” and “machine” can destabilize identity formation, producing self-doubt and estrangement (Gilbert et al., 2019).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Gilbert et al., 2019 source
The Introduction says BCIs may blur the boundary between a patient’s identity and an implanted device. The Discussion reports changes in self-understanding and postoperative estrangement, including one patient’s distress and loss of control. It does not specifically identify self-doubt or establish that blurred boundaries caused the distress; another patient experienced the change as restorative. (LLM, conf=0.83)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
The rise of networked media and real-time communication has immersed societies in a torrent of conflict content.
“The rise of networked media and real-time communication has immersed societies in a torrent of conflict content (Ruhl Ibarra et al., 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Ruhl Ibarra et al., 2025 source
The Discussion reports frequent exposure to tragic news and graphic content in Mexico, but substantially less exposure in Germany. Perceptions Based on News Consumption Habits says some participants encounter more graphic content on social media than in mainstream news. Neither passage establishes that the rise of networked media and real-time communication has immersed societies generally in a torrent of conflict content. (LLM, conf=0.81)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
Users are continuously exposed via social platforms to war reporting, videos, and commentary, rather than relying solely on state narratives.
“Rather than relying solely on state narratives, users are continuously exposed—via social platforms—to war reporting, videos, and commentary.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Ruhl Ibarra et al., 2025 source
The “Perceptions Based on News Consumption Habits” section (page unavailable) reports that some participants get news through social media, including posts by private individuals, and value its less-filtered view of events. It does not establish continuous exposure to war reporting, videos, and commentary or compare these sources with state narratives. The same section says German participants encountered tragic news infrequently and rarely used social media for news. (LLM, conf=0.86)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
Across television and social media, coverage frequently foregrounds tactical moves, territorial gains and losses, and looping explosions, while effacing the human costs of war.
“Across television and social media (e.g., X/Twitter), coverage frequently foregrounds tactical moves, territorial gains and losses, and looping explosions, while effacing the human costs of war.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022 source
The Abstract and Non-narrative witnessing section say that western news coverage can downplay witnesses’ bodies and frame the human cost of an attack as a verification problem. They do not establish that television and social media coverage frequently foregrounds tactical moves, territorial gains and losses, or looping explosions. (LLM, conf=0.86)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Interpretationcitation
Without robust psychological-ethical safeguards-e.g., protections for agency, informed consent, reversibility, and meaningful human control-BCIs risk normalizing forms of heteronomy that erode the subjective capacities on which peace-oriented cognition and behavior depend.
“Accordingly, without robust psychological–ethical safeguards—e.g., protections for agency, informed consent, reversibility, and meaningful human control—BCIs risk normalizing forms of heteronomy that erode the subjective capacities on which peace-oriented cognition and behavior depend (Steinert et al., 2019).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Steinert et al., 2019 source
Split into 2 atoms — 0 confirmed, 2 partially supported, 0 disputed, 0 misattributed, 0 unverifiable. Expand the claim to see per-atom verdicts.
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
Reactive aggression is a defense mechanism shared by both humans and animals to respond to perceived threats.
“Reactive aggression is a defense mechanism shared by both humans and animals to respond to perceived threats.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Boccadoro et al., 2021 source
The Introduction (page not specified) defines reactive aggression as an impulsive response to provocation, supporting the response-to-threat aspect of the claim. It does not describe reactive aggression as a defense mechanism or say that it is shared by humans and animals. (LLM, conf=0.86)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
When virtually every action and decision is subject to external observation, personal autonomy is constrained.
“When virtually every action and decision is subject to external observation, personal autonomy is constrained (Penney, 2017).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Penney, 2017 source
The Introduction describes surveillance as potentially deterring people from exercising freedoms online, and section 4.1 reports that respondents said government surveillance would make them more careful about online speech. Those passages support a constraint on some choices, but the paper does not establish that observation of virtually every action and decision constrains personal autonomy generally. (LLM, conf=0.84)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
As coverage comes to resemble sports broadcasting, images of civilian suffering are quickly subsumed by strategic analysis or state-centered frames.
“As coverage comes to resemble sports broadcasting—with spectators tracking “who is up” on the battlefield, accompanied by nationalistic cheers—images of civilian suffering are quickly subsumed by strategic analysis or state-centered frames (Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022 source
The Non-narrative witnessing section (page unavailable) describes civilian suffering being framed as a verification problem, and the Conclusion says news media can ignore the precarious bodies of conflict. This supports the broader point that civilian suffering can be downplayed, but the paper does not describe coverage resembling sports broadcasting or suffering being quickly displaced by battlefield analysis or state-centered frames. (LLM, conf=0.83)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Premisecitation
Humans tend to fear symbolic threats or uncertainties about the future, not just direct physical threats.
“Thus, humans tend to fear symbolic threats or uncertainties about the future, not just direct physical threats (Rios et al., 2018).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Rios et al., 2018 source
- Premisecitation
Fromm rejected Freud's concept of the "death instinct."
“He explicitly rejected Freud’s concept of the “death instinct” (Fromm, 1973, p. 4).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 4
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Humans can never escape two conflicting tendencies: one that leads them away from the maternal origin toward freedom; the other leads them back to nature, certainty, and security.
“He frequently referenced the fundamental duality of human existence: “Humans can never escape two conflicting tendencies: one that leads them away from the maternal origin—moving from an animalistic state of existence toward a human state, toward freedom; the other leads them back to the maternal origin, back to nature, back to certainty and security” (Fromm, 1955, p. 34).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1955, p. 34
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Analyses of emerging technologies and conflict typically proceed at the level of governance, strategic risk, or legal-ethical critique; they rarely examine the psychological and characterological mechanisms through which technicized environments cultivate indifference, destructiveness, and moral disengagement.
“Analyses of emerging technologies and conflict typically proceed at the level of governance, strategic risk, or legal-ethical critique; they rarely examine the psychological and characterological mechanisms through which technicized environments cultivate indifference, destructiveness, and moral disengagement (Funk, 2025; Frie, 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked - Premisecitation
This capacity makes human aggression more intense and destructive than the innate aggression of animals.
“This capacity makes human aggression more intense and destructive than the innate aggression of animals (Van Hiel et al., 2020).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Van Hiel et al., 2020 source
- Premisecitation
War and violence are not innate human instincts but are distorted responses that arise when humans' basic needs are inadequately met.
“From a humanistic perspective, Fromm argued that war and violence are not innate human instincts but are distorted responses that arise when humans’ basic needs are inadequately met (Fromm, 1947, p.65).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1947, p.65
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Violence and destructiveness are not innate human instincts but products of specific psychological and social conditions.
“He clearly asserted that violence and destructiveness are not innate human instincts but products of specific psychological and social conditions (Fromm, 1973, p. 4).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 4
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Humans tend to construct ideologies and self-identity, linking them to abstract values such as nationality, religion, ethnicity, and political ideologies.
“Furthermore, Fromm observed that humans tend to construct ideologies and self-identity, linking them to abstract values such as nationality, religion, ethnicity, and political ideologies.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Van Hiel et al., 2020 source
- Premisecitation
Information segregation and affective polarization can be reinforced by platform architectures and algorithmic curation, even when causal effects vary by context.
“At the societal level, empirical research indicates that information segregation and affective polarization can be reinforced by platform architectures and algorithmic curation, even when causal effects vary by context (McLaughlin, 2025; Kuehn, 2023).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites McLaughlin, 2025 source
- cites Kuehn, 2023
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Attacks on these values are often experienced as attacks on one's core self.
“Attacks on these values are often experienced as attacks on one’s core self.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Van Hiel et al., 2020 source
- Interpretationcitation
The conflict between freedom and belonging constitutes the core tension in human psychological structure.
“This conflict between freedom (growth, individuality) and belonging (security, unity) constitutes the core tension in human psychological structure.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
In the 1930s, Fromm conducted an empirical study in Germany to investigate the working class's attitudes towards war.
“In the 1930s, Fromm conducted an empirical study in Germany to investigate the working class’s attitudes towards war.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Boehnke et al., 2005 source
- Premisecitation
Due to the lack of instinctive mechanisms and physiological adaptability that other species possess, humans are more vulnerable and anxious than other animals.
“Due to the lack of the instinctive mechanisms and physiological adaptability that other species possess, humans are more vulnerable and anxious than other animals (Fromm, 1941, p. 36–39).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1941, p. 36–39
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Peace psychology lacks a coherent Frommian framework that translates humanistic ethics into concrete guidance for evaluating the peace-relevant effects of technology.
“As a consequence, peace psychology lacks a coherent Frommian framework that translates humanistic ethics into concrete guidance for evaluating the peace-relevant effects of technology (Falcone et al., 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Falcone et al., 2025 source
- Premisecitation
When humans' existential needs are inadequately addressed or are met in regressive ways, they can give rise to harmful tendencies that become the psychological roots of conflict and violence.
“Conversely, when these needs are inadequately addressed or are met in regressive ways (e.g., necrophilia, sadism, destructiveness, greed, narcissism), they can give rise to harmful tendencies that become the psychological roots of conflict and violence (Fromm, 1973, p. 6).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 6
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Rests on an assumption: Humans face five existential needs due to the “dichotomy of existence”: connection, transcendence, grounding, identity, and orientation.
- Interpretationcitation
The roots of war lie not only in material or political conditions but are deeply driven by psychological factors.
“These differing perspectives show that the roots of war lie not only in material or political conditions but are deeply driven by psychological factors (Barbiero and Berto, 2021).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Barbiero and Berto, 2021 source
Checked before — its earlier verdict is held back until a new check runs.
- Premisecitation
These dynamics shape the emotional and cognitive conditions under which people interpret threats, attribute intentions, and recognize the humanity of outgroups.
“These dynamics matter for peace psychology because they shape the emotional and cognitive conditions under which people interpret threats, attribute intentions, and recognize the humanity of outgroups (Guo, 2022).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Guo, 2022 source
- Premisecitation
When an individual cannot transcend themselves in constructive ways, they may turn to destruction as a means of achieving a false sense of transcendence-gaining control over the ultimate mystery of life through death, either of themselves or others.
“However, when an individual cannot transcend themselves in constructive ways, they may turn to destruction as a means of achieving a false sense of transcendence—gaining control over the ultimate mystery of life through death, either of themselves or others.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 9
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Rests on an assumption: Fromm defines necrophilia as a “love for death,” where the individual’s orientation revolves around death, decay, and destruction.
- Rests on an assumption: In the necrophilic personality type, life is despised, death is worshiped, and destruction becomes an end in itself.
- Premisecitation
Fromm locates the attitude of celebrating technology as an end in itself in a necrophilous orientation-an attraction to the mechanical and inanimate that goes hand in hand with indifference to life.
“Fromm locates this attitude in a necrophilous orientation—an attraction to the mechanical and inanimate that goes hand in hand with indifference to life (Fromm, 1973, p. 365).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 365
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Living under the constant threat of destruction for long periods has a significant psychological impact on most people, generating fear, hostility, indifference, rigidity, and a disregard for everything held dear.
“He noted, “Living under the constant threat of destruction for long periods will have a significant psychological impact on most people—it generates fear, hostility, indifference, rigidity, and a disregard for everything we hold dear” (Fromm, 1962, p. 23).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1962, p. 23
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
When people's worship of these idols reaches pathological extremes, any challenge or threat to the idol is perceived as an attack on their core identity.
“When people’s worship of these idols reaches pathological extremes, any challenge or threat to the idol is perceived as an attack on their core identity (Fromm, 1973, p. 270).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 270
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Rests on an assumption: Fromm warned that this idolized sense of threat is a critical root of human hostility and destructiveness.
- Rests on an assumption: When a group is taught to worship a particular nation or ideology and to view others as “enemies,” they are persuaded that war is not only necessary but even just.
- Rests on an assumption: War is often rationalized as a “just act to defend freedom and democracy” or “to preserve national security.”
- Premisecitation
Fromm introduced the human-specific tendencies of "idol-making" and "idol-worship," whereby people create and surrender to various idols, such as nations, races, religions, or even abstract concepts like freedom, democracy, socialism, or consumerism and technological progress.
“Fromm introduced the human-specific tendencies of “idol-making” and “idol-worship,” whereby people create and surrender to various idols, such as nations, races, religions, or even abstract concepts like freedom, democracy, socialism, or consumerism and technological progress (Fromm, 1981, p.19).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1981, p.19
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Rests on an assumption: Fromm warned that this idolized sense of threat is a critical root of human hostility and destructiveness.
- Premisecitation
Fromm argues that violence is not a fixed human instinct but emerges when social environments and existential needs fall out of balance.
“Fromm argues that violence is not a fixed human instinct but emerges when social environments and existential needs fall out of balance (Fromm, 1944).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1944 source
- Premisereasoning
Fromm holds that only positive peace constitutes sustainable peace.
“Fromm argues that only positive peace constitutes sustainable peace.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
When society's focus is excessively directed toward fear and threats, people neglect the importance of positive ideals and human development.
“When society’s focus is excessively directed toward fear and threats, people neglect the importance of positive ideals and human development.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 8
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
For Fromm, the more automated and 'surgical' violence appears, the more dangerous it becomes, because the presentation severs the spontaneous empathic responses that ordinarily restrain destructive impulses.
“For Fromm, the more automated and “surgical” violence appears, the more dangerous it becomes, because the presentation severs the spontaneous empathic responses that ordinarily restrain destructive impulses (Fromm, 1968, p. 53).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Once violence is detached from affective and ethical regulation, it risks becoming a social norm.
“As Fromm writes, once violence is detached from affective and ethical regulation, it risks becoming a social norm (Fromm, 1941, p. 20).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1941, p. 20
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Indifference to life may be more dangerous than overt destructiveness because it underwrites the willingness to destroy others and oneself.
“such indifference may be more dangerous than overt destructiveness because it underwrites the willingness to destroy others and oneself (Fromm, 1968, p. 53).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Fromm warns that chronic control and the anxiety it induces can produce emotional numbing, diminishing sensitivity to injustice and violence and fostering a state akin to learned helplessness.
“Fromm further warns that chronic control and the anxiety it induces can produce emotional numbing, diminishing sensitivity to injustice and violence and fostering a state akin to learned helplessness (Fromm, 1941, p. 22).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1941, p. 22
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationcitation
Fromm would regard these narrative forms as amplifying societal "psychic numbness" and affective decline.
“Fromm would regard these narrative forms as amplifying societal “psychic numbness” and affective decline.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Unregulated technological progress may outpace moral development, generating new forms of alienation, indifference, and destructive power.
“Fromm consistently underscored a dual effect: technology can enhance human welfare and help reduce drivers of war—by alleviating scarcity or illuminating the psychology of aggression—yet unregulated progress may outpace moral development, generating new forms of alienation, indifference, and destructive power.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Fromm argues that the normalization of violence progressively dulls individuals' responses to it.
“Fromm argues that the normalization of violence progressively dulls individuals’ responses to it (Fromm, 1973, p. 63).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 63
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationcitation
Fromm's humanistic peace psychology remains a timely resource for addressing the emotional numbing and social fragmentation characteristic of the technological age.
“On this basis, Fromm’s humanistic peace psychology remains a timely resource for addressing the emotional numbing and social fragmentation characteristic of the technological age (McLaughlin, 2015).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites McLaughlin, 2015 source
- Interpretationreasoning
As emotional numbing intensifies-when killing is equated with "pressing a button" or war is consumed through screens-individuals become more likely to perpetrate or tolerate atrocities.
“As emotional numbing intensifies—when killing is equated with “pressing a button” or war is consumed through screens—individuals become more likely to perpetrate or tolerate atrocities.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
If a society remains in negative peace but is filled with injustice, oppression, or structural violence, it will eventually lead to the eruption of new conflicts.
“Even if a society is in a state of non-conflict (i.e., “negative peace”), if it remains filled with injustice, oppression, or structural violence, it will eventually lead to the eruption of new conflicts (Hirschfeld, 2017).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Hirschfeld, 2017 source
- Interpretationcitation
Fromm identified dangers in the mid-twentieth century that are even more salient today.
“Already in the mid-twentieth century, Fromm identified dangers that are even more salient today.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationcitation
This numbing threatens peace more than open hatred by rendering violence dehumanized, routinized, and increasingly virtualized.
“This numbing threatens peace more than open hatred by rendering violence dehumanized, routinized, and increasingly virtualized (Montgomery and Nelson, 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Montgomery and Nelson, 2025 source
- Interpretationcitation
When the execution of lethal force is no longer modulated by human emotion and moral judgment but by impersonal algorithms, violence becomes dehumanized.
“This insight illuminates the threat posed by LAWs: when the execution of lethal force is no longer modulated by human emotion and moral judgment but by impersonal algorithms, violence becomes dehumanized (Renic, 2023).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Renic, 2023 source
- Premisecitation
In Fromm's framework, hope constitutes the psychological and moral pillar of peace.
“In Fromm’s framework, hope constitutes the psychological and moral pillar of peace.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 9–10
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
This orientation aligns with contemporary conflict-resolution practices that emphasize empathy, narrative exchange, and trust-building.
“This orientation aligns with contemporary conflict-resolution practices that emphasize empathy, narrative exchange, and trust-building (Kelman, 2005).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Kelman, 2005 source
- Premisecitation
In domains such as AI-enabled and autonomous weapons, dehumanized decision chains can normalize violence and mechanize warfare, dulling empathic and moral restraints.
“The stakes are acute in domains such as AI-enabled and autonomous weapons, where dehumanized decision chains can normalize violence and mechanize warfare, dulling empathic and moral restraints (Fromm, 1973, p. 53).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Distance and abstraction in remote warfare produce an 'emotional vacuum'.
“This distance and abstraction produce an “emotional vacuum” (Zhan, 2022).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Zhan, 2022
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Overemphasizing catastrophic narratives can paralyze collective agency.
“Contemporary public discourse often privileges fear over hope; Fromm cautions that overemphasizing catastrophic narratives can paralyze collective agency.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Contemporary public discourse often privileges fear over hope.
- Interpretationreasoning
Dehumanized violence fosters numbness in both individuals and society toward war and conflict.
“Such dehumanized violence fosters numbness in both individuals and society toward war and conflict.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
When technological development is uncoupled from human interior needs, it becomes a force of alienation.
“Yet Fromm warned that when technological development is uncoupled from human interior needs, it becomes a force of alienation (Fromm, 1971).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1971 source
- Premisecitation
When external systems can shape or co-determine thought and action, the individual's capacity for self-directed agency may be compromised, intensifying psychological alienation.
“Such tight coupling raises distinctive risks for personal autonomy: when external systems can shape or co-determine thought and action, the individual’s capacity for self-directed agency may be compromised, intensifying psychological alienation (Fromm, 1973, p. 64).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 64
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Premisecitation
Surveillance technologies-especially facial recognition, data tracking, and large-scale monitoring-significantly erode individual freedom and privacy.
“Surveillance technologies—especially facial recognition, data tracking, and large-scale monitoring—significantly erode individual freedom and privacy (Stoycheff, 2016).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Stoycheff, 2016 source
- Premisecitation
The accelerating diffusion of artificial intelligence, big data analytics, unmanned systems, and automated weapons is reshaping social interaction and psychological functioning.
“The accelerating diffusion of artificial intelligence, big data analytics, unmanned systems, and automated weapons is reshaping social interaction and psychological functioning (Shneiderman, 2020).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Shneiderman, 2020 source
- May combine two claims. 39
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 32
May combine two claims.
PremisereasoningRenewed Fromm scholarship clarifies the meaning of humanism and the dynamics of social character, but it has not yet been systematically connected to contemporary peace psychology or to the specific socio-technical architectures that now mediate violence and political life.
“Conversely, renewed Fromm scholarship clarifies the meaning of humanism and the dynamics of social character, but it has not yet been systematically connected to contemporary peace psychology or to the specific socio-technical architectures—algorithmic feeds, autonomous weapons, immersive media, and pervasive surveillance—that now mediate violence and political life.”
- Also stated in: § Introduction · plain
“Recent Fromm scholarship has clarified the psychoanalytic grounds of Fromm’s humanism and its relevance for current crises (Cortina, 2024; Layton, 2024; Romanetto, 2024; Buechler, 2024), but it has seldom been translated into a peace-psychological framework oriented to technological mediation.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 3 sources checked- Also stated in: § Introduction · plain
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationAutonomy and decision-support systems in military contexts have destabilizing potential, including novel escalation pathways, shifts in responsibility, and risks to strategic stability.
“Parallel literatures in security studies and AI ethics have highlighted the destabilizing potential of autonomy and decision-support systems in military contexts, including novel escalation pathways, shifts in responsibility, and risks to strategic stability (Dean, 2022; Renic, 2023; Montgomery and Nelson, 2025; Kühn and Williams, 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 3 sources checked- cites Dean, 2022 source
In “Method: Moral debate about LAWS” (page unavailable), Dean discusses autonomous military weapons and the ethical risks of assigning targeting decisions to systems without human oversight. That supports the concern about transferring decisions away from humans, but the passages do not address decision-support systems, novel escalation pathways, or risks to strategic stability. (LLM, conf=0.78)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured - cites Renic, 2023 source
- cites Montgomery and Nelson, 2025 source
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationPlatform logics can compress attention, intensify emotional arousal, and transform distant violence into consumable spectacle, with ambiguous consequences for empathy and public judgement.
“Studies of digital conflict communication and mediated suffering show that platform logics can compress attention, intensify emotional arousal, and transform distant violence into consumable spectacle, with ambiguous consequences for empathy and public judgement (Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022; Zhan, 2022).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 2 sources checked- cites Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022 source
The Conclusion (page unavailable) distinguishes the dramatic intensity that drives virality and platform profit from the moral responsibility to acknowledge atrocity. Curated witnessing (page unavailable) describes both compassion for distant victims and the separation of affect from moral force. These passages support the claim’s emotional and ethical ambivalence, but do not establish that platform logics compress attention or turn violence into a consumable spectacle. (LLM, conf=0.84)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured - cites Zhan, 2022
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationContemporary work reconsiders the ethical and psychological grounds of Fromm's humanism, his attention to otherness, and the cultural conditions that shape character and consciousness.
“Contemporary work reconsiders the ethical and psychological grounds of Fromm’s humanism, his attention to otherness, and the cultural conditions that shape character and consciousness (Layton, 2024; Romanetto, 2024; Cortina, 2024; Buechler, 2024; Over, 2021).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 3 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationParticular technologies can normalize violence through specified psychological mechanisms: emotional numbing and voyeuristic spectatorship in mediated war consumption; dehumanization and moral distancing in autonomous warfare; and the erosion of agency and critical consciousness under digital surveillance.
“Second, it extends technology-and-war debates beyond questions of regulation and strategic stability by specifying the psychological mechanisms through which particular technologies can normalize violence: emotional numbing and voyeuristic spectatorship in mediated war consumption (Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022; Zhan, 2022), dehumanization and moral distancing in autonomous warfare (Asaro, 2012;”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim2 of 3 sources checked- cites Chouliaraki and Al-Ghazzi, 2022 source
Split into 2 atoms — 0 confirmed, 2 partially supported, 0 disputed, 0 misattributed, 0 unverifiable. Expand the claim to see per-atom verdicts.
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured - cites Zhan, 2022
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Asaro, 2012 source
Split into 2 atoms — 0 confirmed, 2 partially supported, 0 disputed, 0 misattributed, 0 unverifiable. Expand the claim to see per-atom verdicts.
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
- Rests on an assumption: Technological acceleration has become a defining feature of contemporary social life and, increasingly, of contemporary war.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationBrain-computer interfaces (BCIs) couple neural activity directly to external devices to augment cognition or control machines.
“Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) couple neural activity directly to external devices to augment cognition or control machines (Sun and Ye, 2023).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Sun and Ye, 2023 source
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationBy shifting life-and-death decisions to machine algorithms, LAWs remove the moral shock that would otherwise accompany the use of force, reframing violence as a 'reasonable' course of action.
“By shifting life-and-death decisions to machine algorithms, LAWs remove the moral shock that would otherwise accompany the use of force, reframing violence as a “reasonable” course of action (Dean, 2022).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Dean, 2022 source
The Method section describes LAWS as moving decisions about targeting humans outside direct human control. But the Results section discusses possible revulsion at using LAWS, not a removal of moral shock or a reframing of violence as a “reasonable” course of action. The paper therefore supports the shift in decision-making, but not the claimed psychological effect. (LLM, conf=0.85)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationRapid advances in science and technology have transformed social life and the landscape of challenges and opportunities for peace.
“Rapid advances in science and technology have transformed social life and, with it, the landscape of challenges and opportunities for peace (Kühn and Williams, 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Kühn and Williams, 2025 source
The Abstract says rapid advances in computing have produced new technologies that may disrupt economies and international stability. The Technologies section describes emerging technologies as potentially stability-enhancing or stability-eroding, supporting the point about changing prospects for peace. The paper does not establish the broader claim that advances in science and technology have already transformed social life. (LLM, conf=0.84)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationLethal autonomous weapons (LAWs) are AI-driven systems capable of independently identifying and striking targets, executing violence without human emotional engagement.
“Lethal autonomous weapons (LAWs) are AI-driven systems capable of independently identifying and striking targets, executing violence without human emotional engagement (Asaro, 2012).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Asaro, 2012 source
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationEmbedding core human needs in technology governance can counteract psychosocial fragmentation and strengthen social cohesion.
“Embedding these needs in technology governance can counteract psychosocial fragmentation and strengthen social cohesion (Floridi et al., 2018).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Floridi et al., 2018 source
In “How We Can Interact: Cultivating Societal Cohesion,” the paper argues that AI should respect human self-determination and foster societal cohesion. The Recommendations’ Preamble also calls for ethical principles to be embedded in AI practices. Neither passage says that embedding human needs in technology governance counteracts psychosocial fragmentation, so that part of the claim is unsupported. (LLM, conf=0.85)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationSuch dynamics generate "information fog" and overload, obscuring ground truth and weakening critical appraisal.
“Such dynamics generate “information fog” and overload, obscuring ground truth and weakening critical appraisal (Kraitzman et al., 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Kraitzman et al., 2025 source
The Discussion (page unavailable) says conflicting casualty estimates create uncertainty and that misinformation can foster skepticism about casualty reports. It does not say these dynamics generate information overload or weaken critical appraisal, so those parts of the claim are unsupported. (LLM, conf=0.83)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThis information deluge is typically fragmented and decontextualized, and it is often packaged for attention capture in sensory, gamified formats.
“This information deluge is typically fragmented and decontextualized, and it is often packaged for attention capture in sensory, gamified formats.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites Kraitzman et al., 2025 source
The paper discusses images, verbal accounts, and detailed descriptions of civilian harm in media coverage (Abstract), but does not characterize an information deluge as fragmented, decontextualized, or packaged in sensory, gamified formats to capture attention. Searches for those terms and related descriptions found no passage addressing that claim. (LLM, conf=0.72)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFromm distinguished between two types of aggression: biologically adaptive reactive aggression and malignant aggression unique to humans and rooted in individual character and social pathology.
“Unlike Freud, Fromm distinguished between two types of aggression: one is biologically adaptive, such as “reactive aggression” arising from self-defense, which is a common phenomenon in nature; the other is “malignant aggression,” unique to humans and rooted in individual character and social pathology (Fromm, 1973, p. 9–10).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 9–10
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationWhen humans' existential needs are satisfied in positive ways, they promote individual happiness and social peace, fostering positive forces such as life-enhancement, solidarity, justice, and creativity.
“When these needs are satisfied in positive ways (e.g., through love, creativity, and rational self-actualization), they promote individual happiness and social peace, fostering positive forces such as life-enhancement, solidarity, justice, and creativity (Ryff and Singer, 2008).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Ryff and Singer, 2008 source
- Rests on an assumption: Humans face five existential needs due to the “dichotomy of existence”: connection, transcendence, grounding, identity, and orientation.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationNecrophilic aggression represents the most extreme and pathological form of destructive behavior.
“Necrophilic aggression represents the most extreme and pathological form of destructive behavior (Murad et al., 2025).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Murad et al., 2025 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationPeople with necrophilic tendencies are obsessed with violence, blood, and destruction, harboring a pathological fascination with death, desiring the "pleasure of killing," and even being interested in corpses and torture.
“People with necrophilic tendencies are obsessed with violence, blood, and destruction, harboring a pathological fascination with death, desiring the “pleasure of killing,” and even being interested in corpses and torture (Itzkowitz, 2017).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Itzkowitz, 2017 source
- Rests on an assumption: Fromm defines necrophilia as a “love for death,” where the individual’s orientation revolves around death, decay, and destruction.
- Rests on an assumption: In the necrophilic personality type, life is despised, death is worshiped, and destruction becomes an end in itself.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationWar is not merely a political or economic issue but is driven by deep psychological mechanisms, particularly an irrational dependence on violence and power.
“deep psychological mechanisms such as aggressiveness, idolization, and emotional numbness are key drivers of war”
- Also stated in: § War as a psychological issue · plain
“He argued that war is not merely a political or economic issue, but is driven by deep psychological mechanisms, particularly an irrational dependence on violence and power.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1941
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Also stated in: § War as a psychological issue · plain
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationHumans have an inherent need to transcend their own finite existence, and the healthy way to achieve this is through creation, procreation, and love.
“Humans have an inherent need to transcend their own finite existence, and the healthy way to achieve this is through creation, procreation, and love (Fromm, 1956, p.6).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1956, p.6
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThese technologies can obstruct not only the cessation of violence but also the cultivation of the psychological and cultural capacities that positive peace requires.
“Throughout, we integrate the negative/positive peace distinction to clarify how these technologies can obstruct not only the cessation of violence but also the cultivation of the psychological and cultural capacities that positive peace requires.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Technological acceleration has become a defining feature of contemporary social life and, increasingly, of contemporary war.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningTechnological alienation brings about emotional coldness, numbness, and the aestheticization of war in the media, eroding the psychological foundation for peace.
“the paper analyzes the emotional coldness, numbness, and the aestheticization of war in the media brought about by technological alienation, revealing the erosion of the psychological foundation for peace by these technologies”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Technological acceleration has become a defining feature of contemporary social life and, increasingly, of contemporary war.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationFromm's humanistic psychoanalysis has experienced a visible scholarly revival in the 2020-2025 period.
“In a different register, Erich Fromm’s humanistic psychoanalysis has experienced a visible scholarly revival in the 2020–2025 period (Cortina, 2015).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Cortina, 2015 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThis renewed scholarship is often motivated by contemporary crises-resurgent authoritarianism, widening inequality, ecological precarity-and by the search for conceptual resources capable of resisting dehumanization and cultural resignation.
“This renewed scholarship is often motivated by contemporary crises—resurgent authoritarianism, widening inequality, ecological precarity—and by the search for conceptual resources capable of resisting dehumanization and cultural resignation (Frie, 2025).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Frie, 2025 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationFromm classified malignant (destructive) aggression into three main types: sadistic aggression, narcissistic (or collective narcissistic) aggression, and necrophilic aggression.
“In his exploration of human aggression and destructiveness, Fromm classified malignant (destructive) aggression into three main types: sadistic aggression, narcissistic (or collective narcissistic) aggression, and necrophilic aggression.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Drožđek et al., 2020 source
Checked before — its earlier verdict is held back until a new check runs.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationAlgorithmic engagement incentives can amplify outrage and moral panic, complicating deliberation about war and peace.
“Related work on weaponized digital environments further suggests that algorithmic engagement incentives can amplify outrage and moral panic, complicating deliberation about war and peace (Pizzi et al., 2021).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Pizzi et al., 2021 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationPreventing war cannot rely solely on rational or material analysis, but requires psychological intervention to dissect the inner violent impulses of individuals and groups.
“Fromm maintained that preventing war cannot rely solely on rational or material analysis, but requires psychological intervention to dissect the inner violent impulses of individuals and groups.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based). May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningPeace is also a psychological project that requires cultivating biophilic orientations and resisting the commodification of human relations.
“This complements, but is conceptually distinct from, prevailing human-centered AI programs that foreground usability and safety (Shneiderman, 2020; Frie, 2024b; Putri, 2024) by insisting that peace is also a psychological project that requires cultivating biophilic orientations and resisting the commodification of human relations.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThe responses to the question of "how to prevent a new world war" revealed fundamental differences in people's views on war.
“The responses to the question of “how to prevent a new world war” revealed fundamental differences in people’s views on war (Boehnke et al., 2005).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Boehnke et al., 2005 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationA credible peace theory must be grounded in a developed theory of human nature (a humanistic science of man); understanding human nature is the prerequisite for understanding the possibility of peace.
“Fromm contends that a credible peace theory must be grounded in a developed theory of human nature—what he terms a humanistic science of man (Fromm, 1955, p. 12).”
- Also stated in: § Basic theory of Fromm’s humanistic peace psychology · plain
“In other words, understanding human nature—specifically, human needs, fears, and the potential for love and hate—is the prerequisite for understanding the possibility of peace (Fromm, 1961, p. 23).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1955
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Fromm, 1961
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Also stated in: § Basic theory of Fromm’s humanistic peace psychology · plain
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationSadistic aggression arises from the desire for absolute control and domination over others-seeking pleasure through cruelty, torture, and humiliation to assert power.
“Sadistic aggression arises from the desire for absolute control and domination over others—seeking pleasure through cruelty, torture, and humiliation to assert power (Papagathonikou and Marono, 2025).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Papagathonikou and Marono, 2025 source
- Rests on an assumption: Sadistic aggression is a “malignant aggression” rooted in distorted personality structures, unrelated to the life instinct, but driven by desires for control, domination, humiliation, and dehumanization of others.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFundamental respect for life and empathic concern are stripped away, and violent action is rendered 'rational' and 'normal'.
“Fundamental respect for life and empathic concern are stripped away, and violent action is rendered “rational” and “normal” (Wagner, 2014).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Wagner, 2014 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationDefending freedom through nuclear deterrence will lead to the loss of freedom regardless of whether deterrence succeeds.
“Fromm warned that defending freedom in this way might ultimately lead to the loss of freedom: “If we truly argue that our goal is to preserve freedom—to prevent humanity from becoming the vassal of an authoritarian state—we must realize that, regardless of whether nuclear deterrence succeeds or not, this freedom will be lost” (Fromm, 1962, p. 23).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1962, p. 23
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningSocietal and individual acceptance of violence increases, thereby weakening the psychological motivations that sustain peace.
“In turn, societal and individual acceptance of violence increases, thereby weakening the psychological motivations that sustain peace.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).
InterpretationreasoningIn the digital era, Fromm's warnings have become increasingly salient.
“In the digital era, Fromm’s warnings have become increasingly salient.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationTechnology can enhance human welfare and help reduce drivers of war by alleviating scarcity or illuminating the psychology of aggression.
“Fromm consistently underscored a dual effect: technology can enhance human welfare and help reduce drivers of war—by alleviating scarcity or illuminating the psychology of aggression—yet unregulated progress may outpace moral development, generating new forms of alienation, indifference, and destructive power.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationTechnology must be humanized, i.e., subordinated to human needs and values; otherwise it risks facilitating new wars rather than peace.
“In The Revolution of Hope—subtitled Toward a Humanized Technology—he argues that technology must be humanized, i.e., subordinated to human needs and values; otherwise it risks facilitating new wars rather than peace (Fromm, 1968).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFromm argues that freedom is central to human existence and that its loss stems not only from external control but also from an inner atrophy of vital energies.
“Fromm argues in Escape from Freedom that freedom is central to human existence and that its loss stems not only from external control but also from an inner atrophy of vital energies (Fromm, 1941, p. 35).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1941, p. 35
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFromm cautions that conceiving the end of war as victory or humiliation of the other is both insufficient and dangerous: if the objective is the opponent's destruction, any ensuing 'peace' will be short-lived.
“Fromm cautions that conceiving the end of war as victory or humiliation of the other is both insufficient and dangerous: if the objective is the opponent’s destruction, any ensuing “peace” will be short-lived (Bahador, 2012).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Bahador, 2012 source
May combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationWhile nuclear deterrence may temporarily prevent war, it erodes humanity's fundamental understanding of peace.
“While nuclear deterrence may temporarily prevent war, it erodes humanity’s fundamental understanding of peace.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationFromm contends that ongoing control and insecurity tend to dull affect and sap initiative, leading individuals to relinquish efforts to change the status quo.
“As Fromm contends in The Revolution of Hope, ongoing control and insecurity tend to dull affect and sap initiative, leading individuals to relinquish efforts to change the status quo (Fromm, 1968, p. 64).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 64
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThis power-game narrative encourages emotional disengagement from war's realities and appears not only in tabloid formats but at times within mainstream outlets.
“This power-game narrative encourages emotional disengagement from war’s realities and appears not only in tabloid formats but at times within mainstream outlets.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningThis framework retains strong relevance amid today's psychosocial crises shaped by technologically mediated alienation.
“This framework retains strong relevance amid today’s psychosocial crises shaped by technologically mediated alienation.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationPeace is propelled by transformations in character structure: when individuals overcome fear, isolation, and destructive impulses, social harmony becomes possible.
“Peace, in this view, is propelled by transformations in character structure: when individuals overcome fear, isolation, and destructive impulses, social harmony becomes possible (Wilson, 2024).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Wilson, 2024 source
May combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationWhen war is packaged as reality entertainment or a strategy game, the public's moral imagination-the capacity to place oneself in the other's position-is blunted, undermining the constituency for peace.
“When war is packaged as reality entertainment or a strategy game, the public’s moral imagination—the capacity to place oneself in the other’s position—is blunted, undermining the constituency for peace (Fromm, 1968, p. 53).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationFromm argues that the primary step toward achieving positive peace is to ensure negative peace-the cessation of hostilities-because the alternative could be total destruction.
“In this context, Fromm argues that the primary step toward achieving positive peace is to ensure “negative peace”—the cessation of hostilities, as its alternative could be total destruction.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1962, p. 20
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationFromm warns against an ascetic ideology increasingly visible in modern societies.
“Fromm also warns against an ascetic ideology increasingly visible in modern societies.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1964, p. 16
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThis self-alienation weakens deep interpersonal attachment and diminishes the motivational foundations of empathy and prosocial commitment essential to peace.
“This self-alienation, which Fromm analyzes as a hallmark of modernity’s flight from freedom, weakens deep interpersonal attachment and diminishes the motivational foundations of empathy and prosocial commitment essential to peace.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningSpiritual numbness and degradation hinder the construction of a better future.
“This spiritual numbness and degradation hinder the construction of a better future.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationIn peace studies, the distinction between negative peace and positive peace is a foundational concept.
“In peace studies, the distinction between “negative peace” and “positive peace” is a foundational concept (Galtung, 1969).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Galtung, 1969 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationTargeted psychological interventions and cultural practices can strengthen resistance to violence and war and cultivate prosocial orientations.
“Beyond policy levers, targeted psychological interventions and cultural practices can strengthen resistance to violence and war and cultivate prosocial orientations (Cremin, 2015).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Cremin, 2015 source
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
InterpretationreasoningSuch conflicts are amplified when unmet needs thwart communication and empathy, fracturing social bonds and fueling antagonism.
“Such conflicts are amplified when unmet needs thwart communication and empathy, fracturing social bonds and fueling antagonism.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThe greatest danger of unstable peace based on deterrence is the loss of human vitality and hope.
“Fromm emphasized that the greatest danger of unstable peace based on deterrence is the loss of human vitality and hope (Fromm, 1994, p.16).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1994, p.16
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based). May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningBy pursuing this path, peace psychology can offer effective interventions to counteract the negative psychological effects of technology, while fostering a more harmonious social environment.
“By pursuing this path, peace psychology can offer effective interventions to counteract the negative psychological effects of technology, while fostering a more harmonious social environment.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThe diffusion of surveillance reduces collective sensitivity to violence and injustice, impedes mobilization, and attenuates the psychological foundations that sustain peace.
“The diffusion of surveillance thus reduces collective sensitivity to violence and injustice, impedes mobilization, and attenuates the psychological foundations that sustain peace.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
InterpretationreasoningAbsent hope, individuals lapse into despair or numbness, especially when confronted with war, climate change, or entrenched inequality.
“Absent hope, individuals lapse into despair or numbness—especially when confronted with war, climate change, or entrenched inequality.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationSurveillance not only engenders a sense of powerlessness in the face of social wrongs, it also heightens perceived external threat, encouraging conformity and dependence on prevailing power structures and thereby undermining the willingness to speak and act in contexts of conflict.
“Surveillance not only engenders a sense of powerlessness in the face of social wrongs, it also heightens perceived external threat, encouraging conformity and dependence on prevailing power structures and thereby undermining the willingness to speak and act in contexts of conflict (Murray, 2024).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Murray, 2024 source
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFromm treats freedom and autonomy as core conditions of mental health; interference by external forces in the domain of thought and conduct undermines this inner freedom and erodes the bases of responsible choice.
“Fromm treats freedom and autonomy as core conditions of mental health; interference by external forces in the domain of thought and conduct undermines this inner freedom and erodes the bases of responsible choice (Fromm, 1973, p. 136).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1973, p. 136
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFor Fromm, genuine positive peace is not merely the cessation of war, but the creation of social conditions in which human potential can flourish and life is no longer driven by fear, greed, or domination.
“For Fromm, genuine positive peace is not merely the cessation of war, but the creation of social conditions in which human potential can flourish and life is no longer driven by fear, greed, or domination.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1976, p. 143
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn digital ecosystems, platform logics and information silos can attenuate empathic responsiveness and normalize 'virtual' forms of hostility, reinforcing the very psychic conditions that undermine peace.
“In digital ecosystems, platform logics and information silos can attenuate empathic responsiveness and normalize “virtual” forms of hostility, reinforcing the very psychic conditions that undermine peace (Fromm, 1968, p. 53).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThe result of such coverage is diminished empathic capacity: audiences mourn less, identify less with victims, and are more likely to experience satisfaction when the "home side" prevails.
“The result is diminished empathic capacity: audiences mourn less, identify less with victims, and are more likely to experience satisfaction when the “home side” prevails.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationFromm diagnosed an unhealthy split of affect and reason-a mild but chronic schizophrenic state-whose consequence is not only the growth of hostility but a pervasive indifference to life.
“He also diagnosed an unhealthy split of affect and reason: “a mild but chronic schizophrenic state—a split between feeling and thinking”—whose consequence is not only the growth of hostility but a pervasive indifference to life”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Fromm, 1968, p. 53
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
The paper relies on this without support.
Technological acceleration has become a defining feature of contemporary social life and, increasingly, of contemporary war.
“Technological acceleration has become a defining feature of contemporary social life and, increasingly, of contemporary war.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Humans face five existential needs due to the “dichotomy of existence”: connection, transcendence, grounding, identity, and orientation.
“Fromm posited that humans not only have basic survival needs but also face five existential needs due to the “dichotomy of existence” (e.g., life and death, individualization and isolation): connection, transcendence, grounding, identity, and orientation.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Sadistic aggression is a “malignant aggression” rooted in distorted personality structures, unrelated to the life instinct, but driven by desires for control, domination, humiliation, and dehumanization of others.
“Sadistic aggression is a “malignant aggression” rooted in distorted personality structures, unrelated to the life instinct, but driven by desires for control, domination, humiliation, and dehumanization of others.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Fromm defines necrophilia as a “love for death,” where the individual’s orientation revolves around death, decay, and destruction.
“Fromm defines necrophilia as a “love for death,” where the individual’s orientation revolves around death, decay, and destruction.”
The paper relies on this without support.
In the necrophilic personality type, life is despised, death is worshiped, and destruction becomes an end in itself.
“In this personality type, life is despised, death is worshiped, and destruction becomes an end in itself.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Humans can be manipulated to feel that their “survival interests” or “core values” are threatened, even if these threats are not real.
“Humans can be manipulated to feel that their “survival interests” or “core values” are threatened, even if these threats are not real.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Fromm warned that this idolized sense of threat is a critical root of human hostility and destructiveness.
“Fromm warned that this idolized sense of threat is a critical root of human hostility and destructiveness.”
The paper relies on this without support.
When a group is taught to worship a particular nation or ideology and to view others as “enemies,” they are persuaded that war is not only necessary but even just.
“When a group is taught to worship a particular nation or ideology and to view others as “enemies,” they are persuaded that war is not only necessary but even just.”
The paper relies on this without support.
War is often rationalized as a “just act to defend freedom and democracy” or “to preserve national security.”
“War is often rationalized as a “just act to defend freedom and democracy” or “to preserve national security.””
The paper relies on this without support.
Contemporary public discourse often privileges fear over hope.
“Contemporary public discourse often privileges fear over hope; Fromm cautions that overemphasizing catastrophic narratives can paralyze collective agency.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Technology is not intrinsically malign; it extends human needs and capacities.
“Technology is not intrinsically malign; it extends human needs and capacities.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Modern technologies have expanded productivity and convenience, but they also intensify emotional distancing and interpersonal estrangement.
“While modern technologies have expanded productivity and convenience, they also intensify emotional distancing and interpersonal estrangement.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Cornering the adversary tends to radicalize positions, empower hardliners, and convert moderates into hawks.
“Peace strategies should avoid cornering the adversary, which tends to radicalize positions, empower hardliners, and convert moderates into hawks.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Where interlocutors within the opposing camp still hold humane values or have not succumbed to fanaticism, they can become partners for engagement.
“Where interlocutors within the opposing camp still hold humane values or have not succumbed to fanaticism, they can become partners for engagement.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Fromm's core claim is that durable peace is not merely the absence of war but the realization of inner freedom, reason, love, and empathy.
“Fromm’s core claim is that durable peace is not merely the absence of war but the realization of inner freedom, reason, love, and empathy.”
The paper relies on this without support.
At the individual level, Fromm foregrounds love and reason as core capacities for peace.
“At the individual level, Fromm foregrounds love and reason as core capacities for peace.”
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.
The third aggression category changes between the classification and its subsections
MinorThe paper identifies narcissistic aggression as the third type of malignant aggression, but the section's heading and third subsection identify reactive aggression instead. It also describes reactive aggression elsewhere as biologically adaptive, in contrast to malignant aggression.
“Fromm classified malignant (destructive) aggression into three main types: sadistic aggression, narcissistic (or collective narcissistic) aggression, and necrophilic aggression.”
“### Classification of destructive psychology: sadistic, necrophilic, and reactive aggression”
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Violence and narcissism: a Frommian perspective on destructiveness under authoritarianism
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How civilian casualty information shapes support for US involvement in an ally country’s war effort
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The relationship between psychopathy and sexual sadism: a mixed-methods study
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Perceptions of imagery in tragic news: a comparative study of news audiences
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The Relevance of Compassion Fatigue in Social Media Discourse on the Russia- Ukraine Crisis
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Necrosadism: exploring the sexual component of post-mortem mutilation of homicide victims
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Lethal autonomous weapons systems, revulsion, and respect
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Erich Fromm's psychological concept of humanism
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Humanizing a technological society
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Wagner (2014) · doi:10.2139/ssrn.2541628
Fromm, E. (1955) · Pastoral Psychology · doi:10.1007/bf02009103
Flagged first, then by citations
Research works printed but not linked: 16
- Fromm, 1941, Escape from freedom
- Fromm, 1947, Man for himself: An inquiry into the psychology of ethics
- Fromm, 1950, Psychoanalysis and religion
- Fromm, 1956, The art of loving
- Fromm, 1961, Marx’s concept of man
- Fromm, 1962, Beyond the chains of illusion: My encounter with Marx and Freud
- Fromm, 1964, The heart of man: Its genius for good and evil
- Fromm, 1968, The revolution of Hope: Toward a humanized technology
- Fromm, 1973, The anatomy of human destructiveness
- Fromm, 1976, To have or to be?
- Fromm, 1981, On disobedience and other essays
- Fromm, 1994, The nature of man
- Hardeck, 2025, Begrüßung bei der Fromm Preisverleihung 2024, Fromm Forum, 29, 46
- Kuehn, 2023, Erich Fromm's humanistic approach and its potential for increasing the importance of peace psychology in the public debate, Fromm Forum, 27, 41
- Kühn, 2019, Leadership in a digitally transforming social world: based on Fromm’s humanistic approach, Fromm Forum, 23, 95
- Putri, 2024, Echo chambers and algorithmic bias, SHS Web Conf., 91, 05001, 10.1051/shsconf/20249105001 · DOI
Cited by
Sorted by citations
Flourishing and mental health across the lifespan: Erich Seligman Fromm in psychobiography
Mayer, C. (2026) · Mental Health and Social Inclusion · doi:10.1108/mhsi-03-2026-0107
- Authors
- Wang, Y., Li, P., & Liu, W.
- Affiliations
- Dalian University of Technology (CN)
- Nanjing University (CN)
- Corresponding author
- Li, Peng
- Liu, Wenyu
- ORCID
- Liu, Wenyu
- Venue
- Frontiers in Psychology
- Publisher
- Frontiers Media SA
- Published
- 2026-02-16
- Volume
- 17
- Pages
- 1646601-1646601
- ISSN
- 1664-1078 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC12950794
- OpenAlex
- W7129087188
- Semantic Scholar
- fd4c30131f0f8225217c4d4946fb2765afa00f54
- Cited by
- 1
- References
- 64
- Citations by year
- 2026: 1
- FWCI
- 2.72
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- gold
- doi.org
- Licence
- Locations
- Frontiers in Psychology (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Education for Peace and Conflict Resolution
- Social Sciences › Cultural Studies › Psychoanalysis and Social Critique
- Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Peace and Human Rights Education
- Keywords
- Erich Fromm, peace psychology, humanistic psychology, technological alienation, aggression, idolization, emotional numbness, negative peace, positive peace, media representation of war, cyber warfare, peace education, AI ethics
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