In what remains one of his most seminal papers, Freud considers the
incompatibility of civilisation and individual happiness, and the
tensions between the claims of society and the individual. We all know
that living in civilised groups means sacrificing a degree of personal
interest, but couldn't you argue that it in fact creates the conditions
for our happiness? Freud explores the arguments and counter-arguments
surrounding this proposition, focusing on what he perceives to be one of
society's greatest dangers; 'civilised' sexual morality. After all,
doesn't repression of sexuality deeply affect people and compromise
their chances of happiness?