The Human Predicament: Towards an Understanding of the Human Condition

by Max Malikow

For each of us, if life is to be experienced as worthwhile, if not thrilling, and occasionally pleasant, if not joyful, our diligence is required. Even the most enviable of lives includes challenges, disappointments, frustrations, and confusions. There is a word for circumstances that challenge, disappoint, frustrate, and confuse – that word is predicament. Being a human being is not easy. Every advantage we enjoy seems to be accompanied by a disadvantage. We can acquire information, but also experience the frustration of forgetting. We can create, but also be tormented with “writer's block.” We can know the euphoria of being in love, but also suffer heartbreak from a lover's rejection. These are but a few of the phenomena that can make life difficult, troubling, perplexing, and, perhaps, a predicament.

268 pages, Paperback

First published November 7, 2013

About the author

My doctoral dissertation (accomplished in 1992) and subsequent research and writing are on the topics of depression and suicide. I have 25,000 hours of clinical experience. My practice also includes marriage and family counseling, therapy with adolescents, and discussing issues of faith and philosophy.

I am a Psychology Professor (Syracuse University) and Philosophy Professor (Le Moyne College). Three of my books ("It's Not Too Late! Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life," "Suicidal Thoughts," and "Being Human") reflect my interest in the integration of psychology, philosophy, and meaningful religious faith.