PSYCH 3BA3 Chapter 2: Reading Ch. 2
7 Feb 2017
School
Department
Course
Professor
Document Summary
2: eastern and western perspectives on positive psychology. Expectation and desire for balance- distinguishes easterners" view of optimal functioning from. Western cultures emphasize optimal functioning as it occurs intrapsychically; eastern optimal life experience is spiritual journey involving others and resulting in transcendence and enlightenment. Westerners linear path to revolve problems and monitor progress. Plato and aristotle discussed virtue and human strength. Aristotle expanded on plato"s ideas, detailed 11 moral virtues: courage, moderation, generosity, munificence, magnificence (greatness of soul), temper, friendliness, truthfulness, wit, justice, and friendship. Aristotle believed strength of character would lead to enduring human excellence. Old-testament- virtues of faith, hope and clarity are highlighted and encouraged. Others cite 10 commandments as directives toward cultivating certain strengths within jewish tradition. Book of romans- (cid:498)gifts(cid:499) valued by god- leadership, faith, mercy, love, joy, hope. Book of proverbs- caution followers to live virtuous lives, emphasis on wisdom. Scholars disagree whether islam should be considered western or eastern.
