False Needs: “Superimposed upon the individual by particular social interests in his repression” (Marcuse 7) also see: “the needs which perpetuate toil, aggressiveness, misery, and injustice” (Marcuse 7).
Marcuse also says on page 7, “Euphoria in unhappiness”.
What does it all mean? What exactly are false needs? How can we define true ones? Today we will attempt to unpack some of that.
A recurring theme that is brought up by Marcuse is the concept of repression, and that might be a good starting point for us to look at. Again on page seven, Marcuse states: “products of a society whose dominant interest demands repression” – so what does that mean? Who stands to gain from a dominant society?
But to differentiate between true and false is quite objective – because as Marcuse states, the difference between true and false is a question that is to be answered by the individual. But there is an if, and a big one at that. It is to be answered by the individual only if and when they are free to give their own answer (Marcuse 8). But that individual is unable to answer the question of what is a true and false need if they are repressed by the dominant society, for if the individual is indoctrinated and manipulated, they cannot answer the question for themself.
So, you tell me. What is the difference between a true and a false need? Or are you too indoctrinated and manipulated to answer.
