Blog Post #6
Third-force psychology (AKA humanistic psychology) began to develop in the early 1960’s as a movement against psychoanalysis and behaviorism. Third-force psychologists wanted to emphasize human uniqueness and positivity. It assumes that humans are responsible for choosing their on existence, rather than genetics or early experience. For me, this brings to mind the popular television show called The Biggest Loser. This show makes weight loss into a competition. Obese individuals are taught how to eat right and exercise. The show runs on the basic premise that we can change our negative habits and replace them with positive ones by using our will. Bad genes and a life of couch-sitting does not mean that an individual cannot change his or her body for the better. The realization that we have the power to choose how our lives and bodies will be shaped empowers contestants on the show to work through emotional issues, while improving their physical health.
I generally have a more negative outlook on things; however, I have found that owning my choices not only forces me to face reality, but also reminds me that I have the power to change my reality. This field may not have all the answers, but I do feel that it has something valuable to offer.
Paige Wilson on Blog 1: "The Good Life"
1:25 pm, 01.21.13
Emily, I think that your perspective of the good life is very insightful. The reality of this life is that it is hard. Bad things happen to good people. Bad people go unpunished daily. The world is a confusing and dangerous place where innocence is corrupted daily and trust is shattered. I love your idea that the good life is a choice. If we chose to make the best of every terrible situation that arose I believe that the world would be a radically different place. It is not easy to actively search for the good in a painful situation. It requires diligence, faith, and a sense of hope, which I find to be incredibly admirable. Great thoughts!
Paige Wilson on The Good Life
1:13 pm, 01.21.13
I completely agree that the good life is entirely individual and subjective in nature. We are all driven by different goals in life, from money to personal relationships. I also agree that happiness is one of these goals. In the world today, we have so many resources at our fingertips. Instant gratification of our desires is the name of the game. We can find virtually any information at the push of a button. We can order a meal at any time of day, and eat it without even setting a foot out of our cars. I believe that living life in search of nothing other than happiness is not only a form of self gratification, but also self medication, distracting ourselves from the ever present pain of reality. In my opinion, to live a good life requires the discernment to know when temporary happiness should be sacrificed for some greater purpose outside of one’s self. Great insight! I enjoyed your post.