East/West Philosophical Synthesis in Transpersonal Theory
Issue Date
1991-12-01Author
Canda, Edward R.
Publisher
Western Michigan University
Type
Article
Article Version
Scholarly/refereed, publisher version
Published Version
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol18/iss4/10Rights
Copyright 1991 Western Michigan University
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Show full item recordAbstract
Transpersonal theory is a perspective on human behavior and development that synthesizes philosophical and scientific insights from Eastern and Western traditions of thought. This article presents challenges from transpersonal theory to ethnocentric limitations of conventional developmental theories in social work. Three fundamental philosophical assumptions of conventional theories are critiqued: that linear, rational thinking is the standard for optimal cognitive development; that autonomy is the standard for psychosocial maturity; and that ordinary waking dualistic consciousness is the standard for normal mental operation. Limitations of transpersonal theory are also examined. Based on the challenges and insights of transpersonal theory, suggestions for innovation in teaching and philosophizing about human behavior in social work are offered.
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Citation
Canda, Edward R. (1991) "East/West Philosophical Synthesis in Transpersonal Theory," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 18 : Iss. 4 , Article 10.
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol18/iss4/10
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