These two competing forces work together, and often in competition, to guide and direct human behavior.
This can be contrasted with Eros, which is focused on the propagation of life.
According to Freud, both instincts are in a constant and dynamic state of tension.
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It is the complex interaction between the two that helps shape human behavior.
Eventually, however, Freud came to believe that life instincts alone could not explain all human behavior.
The energy created by the life drive is known aslibido.
It also exerts itself through sexual drives, motivating people to create and nurture new life.
Behaviors commonly associated with life instincts includelove, cooperation, and other prosocial actions.
These behaviors support both individual well-being and the harmonious existence of a cooperative and healthy society.
Eros in Greek Mythology
In Greek mythology, Eros was the god of love and desire.
More precisely, his was the god of physical desire and passion.
Thus, Thanatos stands in stark contrast to the drive to survive, procreate, and satisfy desires.
Thanatos in Greek Mythology
In Greek mythology, Thanatos was the personification of death.
His role was to carry people off to the underworld when their life was over.
Thanatos, or the death drive, is one of Freud’s most disputed and complicated theories.
Some, like Todd Dufresne, professor of Philosophy at Lakehead University, even outright reject its existence.
Later thinkers attached these terms to Freud’s concepts.
Life instincts might compel you to seek the healthy relationships and social support that are essential for emotional health.
Frequently Asked Questions
As in so many other areas, knowledge is power.
The term “death drive” is used interchangeably with “death wish.”
Leith M.The end of the other.CMAJ.
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Capuzzi D, Stauffer MD.Counseling and Psychotherapy: Theories and Interventions.
John Wiley & Sons; 2016.
Jones-Smith E.Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: An Integrative Approach.
Meissner WW.The question of drive vs. motive in psychoanalysis: A modest proposal.J Am Psychoanal Assoc.
Basic Books; 2016.
