Viktor Emil Frankl was an Austrian neurologist, psychologist, philosopher, and Holocaust survivor, who founded logotherapy, a school of psychotherapy that describes a search for a life's meaning as the central human motivational force. Logotherapy is part of existential and humanistic psychology theories.

Logotherapy was promoted as the third school of Viennese Psychotherapy, after those established by Sigmund Freud, and Alfred Adler.

Born in Vienna, Frankl was deeply influenced by both Freud and Adler but carved his unique path by focusing on how individuals find purpose, even in the face of immense suffering. His most famous work, Man’s Search for Meaning, was inspired by his harrowing experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps, where he witnessed firsthand the importance of psychological resilience and purpose in enduring suffering.

Throughout his career, Frankl wrote extensively on the importance of finding meaning in life, a philosophy that continues to resonate worldwide. His approach to psychotherapy has had a lasting impact on existential and humanistic psychology, inspiring countless individuals to seek meaning, regardless of their circumstances. His legacy endures as a testament to the power of hope and the human spirit.

Frankl published 39 books.