“The science of the mind can only have for its proper goal the understanding of human nature by every human being, and through its use, brings peace to every human soul.”
- February 7, 1870 – May 28, 1937
- Austrian
- Psychotherapist, Medical Doctor, Founder of Individual Psychology
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Quote
“The science of the mind can only have for its proper goal the understanding of human nature by every human being, and through its use, brings peace to every human soul.”
Explanation
This quote expresses Alfred Adler’s humanistic vision of psychology as a tool not merely for treating illness, but for fostering universal self-understanding and inner peace. He believed that the true aim of studying the mind was to equip individuals with insight into their own nature, thereby enabling more harmonious lives and healthier societies. The purpose of psychology, in this view, is not academic isolation but practical, transformative understanding accessible to all.
Historically, Adler’s perspective stood in contrast to more clinical or deterministic approaches of his time. As a pioneer of individual psychology, Adler insisted that mental science should serve human development, not just diagnosis. In the wake of World War I, a period marked by widespread psychological trauma and social upheaval, he saw an urgent need for a psychological framework that could empower individuals, foster community feeling, and promote social responsibility.
In the modern world, this quote resonates strongly with movements in positive psychology, mental health education, and emotional literacy. Practices like mindfulness, counseling, and public mental health campaigns strive to make psychological insight available beyond professional settings. When people understand their motives, fears, and drives, they are better equipped to resolve conflict, build empathy, and live with greater emotional stability. Thus, Adler’s vision remains a vital guide in using psychology to heal and elevate both the individual and society.
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