Identity's Architect: A Biography of Erik H. Erikson

I had been introduced to the theories of Erik H. Erikson in a grad. course in Educational Psychology. The course introduced just enough of Erikson to whet my appetite to learn more about the man; I am glad I did because after reading this book, I feel I have gained a richer understanding of his 8 Stage Life Cycle Theory, and the concept of Identity.Professor Friedman's book is compassionate, but not fawning. He gives as complete a picture of a very complex man; as complete as one would hope to have, and he does so in a non-judgemental way.There are many unattractive aspects of Erikson the man; why did this sensitive man, this lover of children who was estranged from his own step-father, virtually disown his own son, who had Down's Syndrome, and have him institutionalized? What made him so ambivalent about his Jewish identity? Friedman explores these issues in a very thorough, yet compassionate way. Erikson himself had a difficult time reconciling the dark side of Gandi while writing his biography; lovers of Erikson, like myself, may have that same struggle while reading this book, but Mr. Friedman does a superb job of bringing out, and sythesizing the "dark Erik" with the Erikson whose works have inspired many a generation of people like myself who are advocates for the welfare of children.I read this book first before reading "Childhood and Society" and "Identity Youth and Crisis" and I am glad I did, for Eriksons paradigm was born from his own identity crisis he suffered, which Friedman does a masterful job of portraying.If you really want to understand Erikson's Works, read this book first. You too will be glad you did.

The book came pretty quickly and came in better than expected condition. I cannot complain about a thing, I only bought the book to research and use it as a reference in a paper i was writing.

It is very heavy material and difficult for me to follow. I would rate it higher, but it is very difficult reading for me.

great

The book arrived earlier than expected, appeared pristine in condition. The description was excellent as there was no surprises with the book. As far as the book itself, I found it extremely educational while enjoyable. Any psychology student would benefit greatly from understanding the background of Erikson.

This is a superb biography of one of the most influential psychoanalytic theorists of the American postwar period. Erikson's writings profoundly influenced not only clinical psychological work, but also the general tenor of social and cultural thinking in this country. Yet his insights were not immediately embraced, and his personal life was not without turmoil and profound heartache. Lawrence Friedman has done a wonderful job of presenting a fully dimensioned, meticulously researched and empathic portrait of this remarkable clinician and thinker who, perhaps more than any other individual writer, shaped the way that we think about ourselves and our society.

This work is an excellent example of scholarly rigor and narrative skill. Friedman has given us a wonderfully detailed account of Erikson's life and work in the context of post W.W.II American culture. He offers compassionate but critical insight into Erik Erikson's personal and professional story. From Friedman we learn how important Erikson is to American intellectual history and to the shaping of our collective identity. A great read.

Just didn't get it. sorry.