The Art of Actualization

Abstract

Two personality psychologists, Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers, used the concept of self-actualization in their theories of personal growth (Schultz & Schultz, 2019). Rogers believed all people have an actualization tendency, a desire to seek higher forms of cognitive complexity (Kim, 2018). Similar viewpoints may be found in the ancient philosophy of Taoism as well as the writings of Plato (Lin, 2011; Bloom, 1968). Also in line with Roger’s theory are the findings that the brain naturally seeks perceptual unity (Griffith & Davidson, 1966; Hunt & Schooler, 2019). Brain areas like the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the default mode network are tied to levels of self actualization (Forrest, 2001; Yangmei et al., 2017). Maslow believed self actualized people have peak experiences such as moments of deep connection with the universe (Yaden et al., 2017). Lowering one’s latent inhibition may be a way to increase the frequency of peak experiences (Carson, Higgens, & Peterson, 2003).

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