The Feeling of Meaninglessness

Revealing essays by the bestselling author of Man's Search for Meaning Viktor Frankl on the pervasive feeling of meaninglessness that many experience, and insights for creating a rich and purposeful life

“People may have enough to live by; but more often than not, they do not have anything to live for,” writes Viktor Frankl in this compilation of articles and essays compiled by Alexander Batthyány. Known for his bestselling book, Man’s Search for Meaning, that continues to influence and inspire, Dr. Frankl’s body of work spans generations. A groundbreaking psychotherapist who founded the school of logotherapy, his work has been translated into over 50 languages and has impacted millions globally. Now for his devoted fans comes another book that provides a roadmap to some of his earlier writings and give insight into his most renowned theories and practices.

Despite having ample material comforts, Frankl believes neglecting our existential needs leads to a feeling of meaninglessness and he offers insights and guidelines to create a “will to meaning” which he postulates is the driving force of human life. Assembled by Alexander Batthyány, who has contributed an introduction and is Director of the Viktor Frankl Institute, this three-part volume offers a chronological selection of key texts and presents a comprehensive explanation of logotherapy.

Part 1 begins with a deeper dive into logotherapy as a form of psychoanalysis and explains its foundational concepts. Part 2 discusses the philosophical aspects of logotherapy and existential analysis, touching on themes such as determinism and humanism, time, and what is meant by meaning. Finally, Part 3 examines special aspects of logotherapy, touching on collective neuroses, suffering, religion, and other topics.