It looks as if there were a single ultimate goal for mankind, a far goal toward which all persons strive. This is called variously by different authors self-actualization, self-realization, integration, psychological health, individuation, autonomy, creativity, productivity, but they all agree that this amounts to realizing the potentialities of the person, that is to say, becoming fully human, everything that person can be.
Dispassionate objectivity is itself a passion, for the real and for the truth.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Dispassionate objectivity emphasizes the importance of viewing reality and truth without emotional bias. It reflects a deep commitment to understanding the world as it truly is.
In this quote, Abraham Maslow suggests that the ability to perceive reality and truth without emotional interference is a powerful form of passion. It implies that being objective and detached does not mean being indifferent; rather, it signifies a deep dedication to uncovering the essence of things as they truly are. This perspective encourages individuals to seek knowledge and understanding beyond their personal feelings and biases.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of unbiased research in scientific studies.
More from Abraham Maslow
All quotes βThe study of crippled, stunted, immature, and unhealthy specimens can yield only a cripple psychology and a cripple philosophy
Marriage is a school itself. Also, having children. Becoming a father changed my whole life. It taught me as if by revelation.
It seems that the necessary thing to do is not to fear mistakes, to plunge in, to do the best that one can, hoping to learn enough from blunders to correct them eventually.
I was awfully curious to find out why I didn't go insane.
Classic economic theory, based as it is on an inadequate theory of human motivation, could be revolutionized by accepting the reality of higher human needs, including the impulse to self actualization and the love for the highest values.
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