alienáció

Alienation, in sociology and philosophy, refers to a state of estrangement or separation. It describes a condition where individuals feel disconnected from their work, their fellow human beings, society, or even themselves. This concept gained significant prominence in the work of Karl Marx, who focused on alienation from labor. Marx argued that under capitalism, workers are separated from the products they create, the process of production, their own human potential, and each other. This leads to a sense of powerlessness and meaninglessness in their work.

Beyond Marxist theory, the concept of alienation has been explored by thinkers like Émile Durkheim and Erich Fromm. Durkheim discussed anomie, a state of normlessness that can lead to social disintegration and individual alienation. Fromm viewed alienation as a product of modern industrial society, where individuals become cogs in a machine, losing their individuality and authentic selves.

Alienation can manifest in various ways, including feelings of powerlessness, meaninglessness, isolation, and self-estrangement. It is often associated with social change, rapid urbanization, and the perceived dehumanizing effects of modern life. The experience of alienation can have profound psychological and social consequences, impacting mental health and social cohesion. Efforts to address alienation often involve promoting meaningful work, fostering community connections, and encouraging individual self-expression and authenticity.