18833 1986 eng article 0 -- -- -- The interpretation of Erich FROMM's work by Herbert Marcuse as essentially conformist in nature is challenged; it is claimed that this view distorts the general tenor and specific content of FROMM's writings. FROMM's rejection of Sigmund Freud's libido theory does not indicate a transition from radical to conformist theories. Instead, it is argued that he developed a consistently critical social psychology, even after rejecting libido theory. FROMM's Marxist social psychology is analyzed, as is Marcuse's critique. Because of Marcuse's criticism, FROMM came to be regarded as a conformist thinker; and Russell Jacoby adopted essentially the same position. In conclusion, it is acknowledged there is some validity to the Marcuse-Jacoby criticism of FROMM's work, but rejecting FROMM as a socially critical thinker is not justified. Theory and Society, Dordrecht (Martinus Nijhoff Publishers), Vol. 15 (1986), pp. 351-400 [cf. RICKERT, J., 1983] Rickert_J_1986 dig-Secon print and PDF-file / Druck und PDF-Datei PDF-file to download Rickert_J_1986 free access / direkt zugänglich John Rickert Articles / Artikel Articles / Artikel Articles / Artikel https://opus4.kobv.de/opus4-Fromm/files/18833/Rickert_J_1986.pdf