Erikson, whose work first described the now familiar concepts of "identity crisis" and "life cycle", provided an unprecedented framework for considering the individual psyche within society and culture. Unveiling a dynamic process of psychological development, he emphasized the tendency toward growth and the integration of multiple influences -- the biological, social, psychological, cultural, and historical.

With writings from Erikson's entire career, including major work from Childhood and Society, Insight and Responsibility, Young Man Luther and Gandhi's Truth, this invaluable reader charts the influence of Erikson's thinking in the areas of child psychology, development through the lifespan, leadership, and moral growth.