JOURNAL ARTICLE

New Light on Maslow's Discovery of Daoism: A Reaction Paper.

  • Published In: Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 2024, v. 64, n. 1. P. 158 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Hoffman, Edward 3 of 3

Abstract

This article focuses on Abraham Maslow's integration of Daoism into his psychological framework, particularly regarding creativity, personal growth, and interpersonal relations. It traces how Maslow, initially a strict behaviorist, shifted toward Daoism after being influenced by a lecture from gestalt psychologist Max Wertheimer and a presentation by Chinese émigré Gwan-Yuen Li, who emphasized the Daoist concept of wu-wei as "non-interference with the natural course of things." Li argued that Daoism supports nurturing and helping others grow authentically, a perspective that deeply impacted Maslow’s humanistic psychology. Maslow’s later writings highlight Daoism as essential for addressing the development of the "Good Person" and the "Good Society," underscoring its role in fostering autonomous, self-governing individuals.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of Humanistic Psychology. 2024/01, Vol. 64, Issue 1, p158
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Religion and Philosophy
  • Publication Date:2024
  • ISSN:0022-1678
  • DOI:10.1177/00221678231162462
  • Accession Number:174319210
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