First published in 1970 original blurb: âAlienationâ is the catchword of our time. It has been applied to everything from the new politics to the anti-heroes of todayâs films. But what does it mean to say that someone is alienated? Is alienation a state of mind or a relationship? If modern man is indeed alienated is it from his work his government his society or himself â or from all of these? Richard Schacht in this intelligent analysis gets to the root of these questions. Examining the concept of alienation in the works of Hegel and Marx he gives a clear account of the origins of the modern usage of the term. Among the many insights to be gained from this analysis is a clear understanding of Hegelâs influence on Marx in this most crucial area. Mr Schacht goes on to discuss the concept of alienation in recent philosophical and sociological literature particularly in the writings of Erich Fromm. Here he finds a great deal of confusion which has resulted in a series of almost universally unquestioned misconceptions. This then is a book for all of us who use â and mis-use â the term âalienationâ and who are interested in the concepts it brings to mind. The arguments of Professor Walter Kaufmannâs introductory essay provide a useful background for Mr Schachtâs analysis. In this essay Professor Kaufmann states that âhenceforth nobody should write about alienation without first reading Schachtâs book. â . Language: English