Between Hubris & Fear: The Crisis of the Modern Self
A stirring nonfiction book about the loss of our values in a torn world
Why does our society seem more disoriented than ever, despite progress, freedom, and prosperity? "Between Hubris & Fear: The Crisis of the Modern Self" relentlessly exposes how the modern self is torn apart between self-aggrandizement and deep insecurity – and in the process, central humanistic values such as decency, loyalty, responsibility, and morality are lost.
This book is a passionate plea for a return to what defines our humanity. It analyzes, with a clear perspective and philosophical depth, how egocentrism, moral arbitrariness, and collective fears are destabilizing our society. Instead of true freedom, we are experiencing an identity crisis – and with it the gradual disappearance of empathy, solidarity, and spirituality.
This book invites you to pause. To reflect. And perhaps even to take new paths. It combines philosophical depth with understandable language – and is aimed at all those who want to understand, not just observe.
What you can expect from this book:
– Decline in values & ethics in the modern age
– Hubris and self-promotion in social media
– Culture of fear and loss of identity
– The role of humanism in the 21st century
– Paths to a new moral orientation
For all those who sense that something crucial is being lost in our society – and who are looking for answers, guidance, and true depth. This book is a wake-up call – and offers hope.
For you. For us. For a better society.
Hermann Selchow grew up in Schwerin, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. He began writing as a young adult, publishing in several magazines. He worked at the Schwerin State Theater. He then went freelance. He has been in (or not in) retirement since 2021, and since 2023 he has been publishing works on current social and political issues. Selchow lives near Hamburg.