AQAL, THE NEXT GENERATION?
How ADAPT Points the
Way Toward a Major Revision
Of Ken Wilber’s Model of Human Development
PART 1: THE ADAPT MODEL
Hugh & Amalia Kaye Martin
P.O. Box 1736
Sebastopol, CA 95473
(707) 874-9799/ -9699
MartinHughCo@Gmail.com
MartinAKaye@Gmail.com
Copyright Hugh Martin & Co. December 2007
PREFACE
ADAPT – The Next Generation of AQAL and ILP?
Is AQAL the best foundation for an Integral program of personal growth? This article proposes an alternative model called ADAP2T (All Dimensions, All Processes, All Participants, Together) that is more clear, more balanced, more differentiated, and more complete.
Are there four essential Dimensions, as in AQAL[1] – or really at least eight, as in ADAPT? Is there just one key Participant, as in AQAL – or at least seven, as in ADAPT? Are there nine basic Process categories, as in ILP[2] – or really at least 33, as in ADAPT? Is there just one form of Orchestration, or at least 12? Are both AQAL and ILP sufficiently complete and articulated to be of optimal use as tools for personal growth? And are they sufficiently integrated and coordinated to deserve the title Integral?
Ken Wilber is the Big Kahuna of Integral Theory. Everything Integral that we have today, we owe to him. However, as Ken once mused. . . When they lay me in the ground, the words I’d like engraved on my tombstone are, ‘He was right, but partial.’[3] As this article suggests, Ken may not have to wait for death to achieve his wish.[4] Wilber, AQAL, and ILP are each right, but partial. Their positions in the field of personal growth are outstanding and impressive – but seriously limited, and significantly partial. Perhaps it’s time to give Wilber’s venerable and revered AQAL (and its ILP derivative) a new face-lift? Maybe we’re ready for Integral Operating System, The Next Generation?
Our purpose here is to reconsider, elucidate, refine, revise, expand and update Wilber’s admirable work – not to challenge, contest, bash, denigrate, debunk, replace, or supercede it.[5] Wilber is a Titan on whose shoulders all our efforts stand.
HUGH & KAYE MARTIN
HUGH MARTIN.
Hugh Martin is listed in Who’s Who in the World. He has appeared on numerous
talk shows, led seminars at many colleges and corporations, and spoken at
numerous professional conferences and colloquia. Mr. Martin is president of
the NASD-registered securities brokerage firm, Hugh Martin Securities, and of
the SEC-registered investment advisory firm, Hugh Martin & Co.
AMALIA KAYE MARTIN. Amalia Kaye Martin (‘Kaye’) is a gifted natural medicine practitioner and instructor, and children’s educator. Kaye is a dedicated homemaker, full-time mother, ‘clairvoyant’ life counselor, certified natural foods chef, and dynamic community organizer.
HUGH AND KAYE MARTIN. Hugh and Kaye are primarily qualified as Integral theorists and practitioners because they have led Integral lives. Both Hugh and Kaye have extensive experience in personal transformation, natural medicine and health, early and advanced education, societal change, natural and cultural environments, and high-level academics. (See the last section of the Appendix, Biographical Background, for details.)
Hugh and Kaye have been married for over 30 years. They have five highly-independent, multi-gifted children with close family ties.
WHOLE LIFE ADVISORY. Hugh and Kaye Martin are the
founders and co-directors of the life planning and counseling firm Whole Life
Advisory. Whole Life Advisory is a comprehensive program for personal and
professional growth, which empowers clients to achieve success and fulfillment
in 12 key arenas of life -- education, career, marriage, family, community, emotions,
sexuality, finances, health, recreation, nature, and spirituality. For more
information, please contact the authors at
MartinHughCo@Gmail.com.
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View our companion articles:
The Human Growth Continuum (the Dimensions of Growth),
The Processes
of Human Development,
Arrays of Light (Wilber’s
Tables from Integral Psychology)
AQAL, The Next Generation?
Part 1: The ADAPT Model
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE...................................................................................................................................... 2
ADAPT – The Next Generation of AQAL and ILP?.................................................................................................. 2
HUGH & KAYE MARTIN............................................................................................................ 3
Division 1: INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................... 8
OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................................................................... 8
HOW TO READ THIS STUDY................................................................................................................................... 11
Division 2: OVERVIEW OF ADAPT........................................................................................ 13
Section D: THE DIMENSIONS OF THE GROWTH CONTINUUM.................................................................... 13
{ D1: Stage growth................................................................................................................................... 14
{ D2: Transition growth.......................................................................................................................... 14
{ D1/2: The Developmental Sequence of Stages and Transitions................................................... 15
{ D3: State Growth................................................................................................................................... 17
{ D4: Realm growth.................................................................................................................................. 18
{ D5: Arena growth.................................................................................................................................. 19
{ D6: Vector and direction growth......................................................................................................... 21
{ D7: Actualization & Restoration growth........................................................................................... 24
{ D8: Coordination Growth..................................................................................................................... 26
Section PR: THE PROCESSES OF GROWTH...................................................................................................... 28
{ PR1: Foundational................................................................................................................................. 28
{ PR2: Physical world.............................................................................................................................. 28
{ PR3: Socio-cultural................................................................................................................................ 29
{ PR4: Formal investigation.................................................................................................................... 29
{ PR5: Self-expression............................................................................................................................. 29
{ PR6: Conscious development............................................................................................................. 30
{ PR7: Comprehensive............................................................................................................................. 30
Section P: THE PARTICIPANTS IN THE GROWTH PROCESS....................................................................... 31
{ P1: The Experienced/Observed Self................................................................................................... 31
{ P2: The Individual/Collective Self...................................................................................................... 31
{ P3: Personae & Types.......................................................................................................................... 32
{ P4: The Functional Self........................................................................................................................ 35
{ P5: The Impediment Self....................................................................................................................... 35
{ P6: The Generational Self..................................................................................................................... 35
{ P7: The Witness.................................................................................................................................... 36
Section T: ‘TOGETHER-NESS’ (Guidance & Orchestration of the Growth Process)................................... 37
COLLECTIVE & SOCIETAL GUIDANCE/ORCHESTRATION............................................................... 37
{ T1: Parent/s............................................................................................................................................ 37
{ T2: Society/Culture............................................................................................................................... 38
{ T3: Holistic Growth Situations............................................................................................................ 38
{ T4: Growth Centers............................................................................................................................... 38
{ T5: Authorities...................................................................................................................................... 39
PERSONAL AND INDIVIDUAL GUIDANCE/ORCHESTRATION....................................................... 39
{ T6: Partner/Spouse............................................................................................................................... 39
{ T7: Therapist.......................................................................................................................................... 40
{ T8: Spiritual Guide................................................................................................................................. 40
{ T9: Other Growth Professionals.......................................................................................................... 40
{ T10: Integral Life Guide........................................................................................................................ 40
INTERNAL GUIDANCE/ORCHESTRATION............................................................................................ 41
{ T11: Internal Navigator........................................................................................................................ 41
{ T12: Witness.......................................................................................................................................... 41
Section A: ADAPT: NAVIGATING THE GROWTH CONTINUUM.................................................................... 42
Section I: IMPEDIMENTS AND RESOLUTIONS.................................................................................................. 43
{ IA: Limitations in the Actualization Cycle........................................................................................ 44
{ IR: Impasses in the Actualization Cycle............................................................................................ 44
{ IRR: Resolutions for Impasses............................................................................................................ 45
Division 4: APPENDICES.......................................................................................................... 46
Appendix C: IMPEDIMENTS TO THE GROWTH PROCESS............................................................................. 48
Section I-D: DIMENSIONS IMPEDIMENTS........................................................................................................... 48
I-D: IMPEDIMENTS -- DIMENSIONS........................................................................................................ 48
IA-D: ACTUALIZATION IMPEDIMENTS -- DIMENSIONS................................................................. 48
{ IA-D1: Stage impediments................................................................................................................... 48
{ IA-D2: Transition impediments........................................................................................................... 49
{ IA-D1/2: Stage/transition impediments............................................................................................. 49
{ IA-D3: State impediments.................................................................................................................... 50
{ IA-D4: Realm impediments.................................................................................................................. 50
{ IA-D5: Arena impediments.................................................................................................................. 50
{ IA-D6: Vector & direction impediments............................................................................................ 51
{ IA-D8: Coordination impediments...................................................................................................... 52
IR-D: RESTORATION IMPEDIMENTS -- DIMENSIONS....................................................................... 52
{ IR-D1/2: Stage/transition impediments.............................................................................................. 52
Section I-PR: PROCESSES IMPEDIMENTS......................................................................................................... 54
IA-PR: ACTUALIZATION IMPEDIMENTS -- PROCESSES.................................................................. 54
{ IA-PR1: Foundational impediments................................................................................................... 54
{ IA-PR2: Physical world impediments................................................................................................. 54
{ IA-PR3: Socio-cultural impediments.................................................................................................. 54
{ IA-PR4: Formal investigation impediments....................................................................................... 54
{ IA-PR5: Self-expression impediments................................................................................................ 55
{ IA-PR6: Conscious development impediments................................................................................ 55
{ IA-PR7: Comprehensive impediments............................................................................................... 55
Section I-P: PARTICIPANT IMPEDIMENTS......................................................................................................... 56
IA-P: ACTUALIZATION IMPEDIMENTS -- PARTICIPANTS............................................................. 56
{ IA-P1: Experienced/Observed Impediments..................................................................................... 56
{ IA-P2: Individual/Collective Impediments........................................................................................ 56
{ IA-P3: Persona/Type Impediments.................................................................................................... 56
{ IA-P4: Functional Impediments.......................................................................................................... 57
{ IA-P6: Generational Impediments....................................................................................................... 57
{ IA-P7: Witness Impediments.............................................................................................................. 58
IR-P: RESTORATION IMPEDIMENTS -- PARTICIPANTS.................................................................... 58
{ IR-P1: Experienced/Observed Impediments...................................................................................... 58
Section I-T: TOGETHER-NESS IMPEDIMENTS................................................................................................... 59
IA-T: ACTUALIZATION IMPEDIMENTS – TOGETHER-NESS........................................................... 59
{ IA-T1: Parental Impediments............................................................................................................... 59
{ IA-T2: Societal/Cultural impediments................................................................................................ 59
{ IA-T3: Holistic Growth Situation Impediments................................................................................ 59
{ IA-T4: Growth Center Impediments................................................................................................... 60
{ IA-T5: Authority Impediments........................................................................................................... 60
{ IA-T6: Partner Impediments................................................................................................................ 60
{ IA-T7: Therapist Impediments............................................................................................................ 61
{ IA-T8: Spiritual Guide Impediments................................................................................................... 61
{ IA-T9: Growth Professional Impediments......................................................................................... 61
{ IA-T10: Integral Counselor Impediments.......................................................................................... 62
{ IA-T11: Internal Navigator Impediments........................................................................................... 62
{ IA-T12: Witness Impediments............................................................................................................ 62
IR-T: RESTORATION IMPEDIMENTS -- TOGETHER-NESS................................................................. 63
{ IR-T1: Parental Impediments............................................................................................................... 63
Appendix D: RESOURCES FOR STUDY.................................................................................................................. 65
Articles by Hugh & Kaye Martin................................................................................................................ 65
Ken Wilber...................................................................................................................................................... 66
Integral Studies............................................................................................................................................... 67
Integral Articles.............................................................................................................................................. 67
DIMENSIONS................................................................................................................................................. 68
Life Passages.................................................................................................................................................. 68
Psyche Passages............................................................................................................................................ 68
Body Passages............................................................................................................................................... 68
Spirit Passages................................................................................................................................................ 68
Culture Passages............................................................................................................................................ 69
Internal Passages & Chakras........................................................................................................................ 69
PARTICIPANTS............................................................................................................................................. 69
PROCESSES & ORCHESTRATION............................................................................................................ 69
Overviews........................................................................................................................................................ 69
Sociological analysis..................................................................................................................................... 70
Surveys and compendia of therapies.......................................................................................................... 70
Specific Processes or Themes...................................................................................................................... 70
Self-help........................................................................................................................................................... 71
Informal histories............................................................................................................................................ 71
Personal journeys........................................................................................................................................... 71
Schools............................................................................................................................................................ 72
Growth centers................................................................................................................................................ 72
Appendix E: GLOSSARY OF TERMS..................................................................................................................... 73
Appendix F: THE ODYSSEY of HOMER.................................................................................................................. 85
Appendix G: CREDITS................................................................................................................................................. 87
HUGH AND KAYE MARTIN Biographical Information........................................................................................ 89
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AQAL, THE NEXT GENERATION?
How ADAPT Points the
Way Toward a Major Revision
Of Ken Wilber’s Model of Human Development
Division 1: INTRODUCTION
OVERVIEW
When sailing to some
distant port, we need four things – a map, a ship, some voyagers, and a
navigator. Likewise, for an effective program of personal growth that will
carry us through the journey of life, we need four Domains -- Dimensions
(of the Growth Continuum), Processes (of growth), Participants (in the growth
process), and ‘Together-ness’ (Orchestration of all four Domains). When all
four Domains are complete and combined, they form an Integral Program we call ADAP2T (pronounced A’-Dapt)[7]
– All Dimensions, All Processes, All Participants, Together.
In this study, we describe the major Features of ADAPT – giving examples showing how each Parameter manifests itself in real life. Then, we describe the potential Impediments that can disrupt each Parameter of growth – along with possible Resolutions. Detailed examples of each Impediment are shown in Appendix C.
Next, we show how ADAPT may be used to develop a revised model of human growth. After explaining why an accurate model is essential, and emphasizing our constructive intent, we show how comparisons between ADAPT and Wilber can highlight areas where AQAL may need re-examining, and perhaps revision. We conclude by outlining a series of steps for creating a revised and updated model of human development.
Parameter-by-Parameter comparisons between ADAPT and Wilber will be found in Appendix A. Of 140 different comparisons, we find that Wilber’s position needs re-examination in at least 73 instances. Of those 73, at least 50 Wilber positions may particularly be in need of revision.
The article consists of four Divisions -- some divided into several sections:
{ Division 1: INTRODUCTION
Ø Overview. This Overview that you are now reading.
Ø How to Read This Study. Suggestions on how to get the most out of reading this article.
{ Division 2. OUTLINE OF ADAPT. A description and overview of our proposed model of human growth, ADAPT -- what it consists of, how it works, and how it is manifested in real life.
Ø Section D: The Dimensions of the Growth Continuum. The eight Features, or Dimensions, that define human growth.
Ø Section PR: The Processes of Growth. The 33 basic methodologies, or Processes of growth, and their seven Themes of emphasis.
Ø Section P: The Participants in Growth. The seven aspects of identity, or Participants, that partake in the growth process.
Ø Section T: The Together-ness of Growth. The 12 types of ‘Togetherness’ (Orchestration/ Guidance) – by which we weave together the diverse strands of life experience.
Ø Section A: ADAPT -- Navigating the Growth Continuum. How Dimensions, Processes, Participants, and Together-ness can be combined to build a truly Integral growth program.
Ø Section I: Impediments and Resolutions. All the Impediments that can cause the growth process can go wrong – and the Resolutions that can fix these Impediments. (Specific examples of each Impediment are found in Appendix C.)
{ DIVISION 3. TOWARD A NEW MODEL OF HUMAN GROWTH. Why Ken Wilber’s model of human development may be due for careful re-examination. How we can begin the revision process.
Ø Where Models Go Wrong. How deficiencies or distortions in Dimensions, Processes, Participants, and Together-ness can limit the effectiveness of the growth process.
Ø Constructive Comparisons. The constructive and cooperative intent of our critique of Wilber, AQAL, and ILP.
Ø Re-examining Ken Wilber (‘Re-examining’). A comparison of ADAPT’s positions on human growth to those of Ken Wilber – intended to shed light on Wilber’s perspective and to highlight areas in which Wilber’s model may need re-examination, refinement, or revision. (Parameter-by-Parameter comparisons will be found in Tables A1-3 of the Appendix.)
Ø Creating a Revised Model of Human Growth. A step-by-step program for creating a revised and updated model of human growth -- using AQAL and ADAPT as a foundation.
{ Division 4. APPENDICES. Important information you need to understand ADAPT, or any other model of human development. The Appendices (and footnotes) are intended not just as background material, but as important extensions of the main article – to be referred to and read as references occur in the text.
Ø Tables A1-3: ADAPT and Wilber Compared (‘Comparisons Tables’).
These three Tables are among the most important sections of this entire study. Here we show which Wilber positions may be in need of modification, and why.
The three Tables that make point-by-point comparisons between ADAPT’s position on each Parameter of human growth, and that of Ken Wilber. Each Table contains the same comparisons, but organized differently for ease of study. The first Table is organized by Domain, the second by Divergence between the two positions, the third by our degree of Confidence in the validity of ADAPT’s position.
Ø Tables B1-3: Wilber’s Processes. Three Tables that display the Processes as conceived by Wilber. The first two show, from a Actualization Growth perspective, how Wilber’s ILP methodologies correspond to ADAPT’s 33 Processes. The third shows, from a Restoration Growth perspective, how Wilber’s Pathologies and Treatments correspond to his Fulcrums.
Ø Appendix C: Impediments to the Growth Process. A detailed listing of some typical potential Impediments that correspond to each Feature – with examples from real life.
Ø Appendix D: Resources for Study (‘Resources’). Books and other resources useful for understanding and investigating ADAPT – as well as the comparable models of Ken Wilber, AQAL, ILP, and Integral Institute.
Ø Appendix E: Glossary of Terms (‘Glossary’). Definitions of important terms, with the corresponding term from Wilber’s system, where available. In the main text, the first major occurrence of each term is Bolded, and other occurrences are Capitalized.
Ø Appendix F: Homer’s The Odyssey. A brief synopsis of Homer’s classic work, to help the reader understand some of our illustrative examples.
Ø Appendix G: Credits. Acknowledgment of sources for quotes and graphics.
Ø Biographical Background. Background and qualifications of the authors, Hugh and Kaye Martin.
HOW TO READ THIS
STUDY
This article will repay careful study. For it to be of most value to you, we suggest the following sequence of study:
{ Download the MS Word version. To navigate easily around this study, download the MS Word version (see link before Table of Contents). In that version, you can hyperlink quickly between corresponding topics of each section -- and also notate you comments and emendations directly into the text. Stitch the two Parts together, using the instructions at the download link. [Permission to download is granted, but please email us that you have done so.]
{ Read the ADAPT section (in Division 2). Here we give an overview of the entire ADAPT model. Read over this section fairly quickly to get the major points and the general thrust.
{ Read Impediments and Resolutions section (end of Division 2). Here we explain how each Feature of growth has corresponding potential Impediments (ways the growth process can go wrong). We divide those Impediments between those that can be resolved by Guidance, and those that require Therapy.
{ Read Impediments Appendix (Appendix C). In the Impediments Appendix, we give detailed examples of the many of the ways the growth process can go wrong. Read the ADAPT section again – this time pausing at each Feature to the read examples of the corresponding Impediment/s in the Appendix. [In the MS Word version, click the letter/number of the ADAPT Feature to jump to the corresponding Impediments section.]
{ Read the Constructive Comparisons section (in Division 3). Here, before beginning the comparisons between ADAPT and Wilber, we explain the limitations and qualifications on those comparisons.
{ Read the Re-examining Ken Wilber section (in Division 3). Here, we show how the many Divergences between ADAPT and Wilber highlight places where Wilber’s positions may need re-examination.
{ Read ADAPT and Wilber Compared Table (Table A1). Read the ADAPT and Impediments sections again – this time pausing at each Feature and Impediment to read the corresponding comparisons between ADAPT and Wilber in Table A1. At each entry, ask yourself a set of questions: Does the comparison accurately characterize the two positions? Which position appears more valid? Is there a third position that is more plausible? [In the MS Word version, click the name of the ADAPT or Impediments Parameter to jump to the corresponding comparison.]
{ Read the Building the Next Integral Operating System section (in Division 3). Here, we outline a series of steps you can take to participate in the creation of a revised model of human development. Follow those steps carefully to integrate everything you have read up until now.
{ Read the evidence. When available, read our companion study, The Fundamental Ken Wilber [scheduled for publication January 2008]. Here, we quote passages from Wilber’s writings to illustrate Wilber’s position on each Parameter.
{ Draw your conclusions. Summarize what you have discovered. From your own perspective, what model of human development makes the most sense? What model is the most usable? How might you apply these insights to your own profession – and to your own life? If you have downloaded the MS Word version, please send us the file with your comments and emendations.
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Division 2:
OVERVIEW OF ADAPT
When sailing to some distant port, we need four things – a
map, a ship, a set of voyagers, and a navigator. Likewise, in devising an
effective program of personal growth, we need four Domains
-- Dimensions (of the Growth Continuum), Processes (of growth), Participants
(in the growth process), and ‘Together-ness’ (Orchestration of all four
Domains). When all four Domains are complete and combined, they form an
Integral Program we call ADAP2T
– All Dimensions, All Processes, All Participants, Together.[8]
This section gives a brief overview[9] of each of those Domains. We first discuss each of the Dimensions, then each of the Processes, then each of the Participants, then each Mode of ‘Together-ness’– and finally, we put them all together in our ADAPT model. To conclude this section, we discuss all the Impediments to growth, along with the main Resolutions to those Impediments. For illustration, we use the metaphor of the nautical journey – drawing, where appropriate, on the adventures of Odysseus from Homer’s The Odyssey.[10]
Section D:
THE DIMENSIONS OF THE GROWTH CONTINUUM
A map shows what
routes we can take and what destinations we can head for in any voyage. Each
map has coordinates that show our position and indicate what we will find in
different locations. The basic coordinates are latitude and longitude – but a
more sophisticated map might include topography, climate, vegetation, ethnic
populations, and so forth.
Our map can be a small map, showing the streets and by-ways of our local region. It can be a broader-range map, showing whole states, or countries, or continents. It can be just as broad, but even more detailed – showing the tallest mountains and the deepest canyons, the dry arid regions, the tropical jungles, the teeming cities seething with people. We will be examining the very broadest and most detailed map in the field of human growth. We call that map the Growth Continuum.
Growth is the journey we take across the turbulent seas and exotic lands of life. The Growth Continuum is a map of all the routes and destinations our journey of growth can take. The Dimensions are the coordinates that define different Features of our map. For Odysseus, Growth is the entire series of adventures he engages in throughout the course of The Iliad and The Odyssey. Odysseus’ Growth Continuum is the entire set of islands, kingdoms, open seas, and subterranean depths he visits in the progress of his journey.
In technical language, Growth is the process of moving and progressing along the Growth Continuum. The Growth Continuum is a field of eight Dimensions, which describes the various ways human growth can take place. The Dimensions are the Features that define different elements of that growth. The eight Dimensions of the Growth Continuum are: Stages, Transitions, States, Realms, Arenas, Vectors, Actualization/Restoration, and Coordination -- as described below:
{
D1: Stage growth
Stages are the ports of call in our life’s journey. They are the places where we stop off, take on fresh supplies, transact some business, deal with hostile natives, and then re-embark on our journey. Like Odysseus, we must outmaneuver the Cyclops, or extricate ourselves from the seductive wiles of Circe, before we can continue on our travels.
In technical language, Stages are the levels of development, maturity, enlivenment, or enlightenment through which we pass as we grow. Stages are generally periods of horizontal Translation – times when we are expanding and becoming better at activities we already know how to do. Likewise, they are periods of Assimilation – where we digest and metabolize the Discoveries of the previous Transition, turning them into established Traits. Stages occur at both the Individual and Collective Levels (including Cultural). (see P2)
Stage Growth occurs as we progress within each Stage of human development. Here, we meet and master the challenges presented by a particular Stage.
Ø Ex: “As a toddler, I’m getting better and better at walking.”
{ 
D2: Transition growth
Transitions are the routes of passage our ship will take between one port of call and the next. They are ventures of exceptional risk and uncertainty – where we may lose our way, or encounter unexpected obstacles and dangers. Like Odysseus, our ship may be blown off course, thrashed with storms by some wrathful god, tempted by Sirens, or sent careening between two grim choices like the man-devouring Scylla and the boiling vortex of Charybdis.
In technical language, Transitions are the quantum leaps that take us from one Stage to the next. Transitions are generally periods of vertical Transformation – times when we are becoming something we’ve never been before. Likewise, they are periods of Discovery – periods when we encounter situations and insights we will assimilate during our next Stage of development.
Transition Growth occurs as we Transition from one Stage to the next. Here, we leave the familiar comfort of past (often-surmounted) challenges, and venture into the unknown territory of strange and daunting new challenges.
{ D1/2: The Developmental Sequence of Stages and Transitions
The developmental sequence is our entire life journey – from open sea, to port of call, to open sea again, until our ship reaches its final destination. Like Odysseus, we must sail from one island to the next, encountering many harrowing dangers and tempting diversions, before we finally touch land in our home country.
In technical language, the basic Developmental Sequence is a series of alternating Stages and Transitions – of Translation, followed by Transformation, followed by Translation, and so forth.
Ø
D1/2a: The Transition cycle
Transition occurs through a four-phase process we call the Transition Cycle:
1. Identification (‘embedding’[11]). Initially, the Self identifies with a particular Stage of development (manifests the initial Experienced Self -- see P1)
§ Ex: “I am a baby.”
2. Differentiation (‘dis-embedding’). Next, the Self transcends that Stage by dis-identifying with it (manifests the Observed Self).
§ Ex: “I am no longer the baby I was.”
3. Re-identification (‘re-embedding’). Then, the Self begins to identify with the subsequent Stage of development (manifests a new Experienced Self).
§ Ex: “I am now a toddler.”
4. Integration. Finally, the Self consolidates the new identification -- integrating the new Experienced Self with the old Observed Self.
§ Ex: “I’m a toddler with good feelings about the baby I used to be.”
Ø
D1/2b: Fundamental Developmental Sequence
For the internal Passages of Psyche, Body, and Spirit (see D4), the entire series of alternating Stages and Transitions may be called the Fundamental Developmental Sequence (FDS). All told, the FDS for internal Passages may be viewed as consisting of 38 distinct steps. (see Table B3) For the sake of clarity and simplicity, these steps are consolidated into 12 developmental Clusters, – consisting of 12 Stages, separated by 11 Transitions. Within those 12 Clusters, the seven central Stages are known in Eastern philosophy as the Chakras.
Ø
D1/2c: The Chakras
The Chakras may be viewed in two ways – both as a condensation of the FDS and as an integration of the three internal Passages (see D4). From a Western perspective, the Chakras are merely a consolidation, condensation, or simplification of the FDS into seven basic Clusters, or Stages. From an Eastern perspective, the Chakras are energy phenomena that manifest themselves simultaneously in all three internal Realms of Body, Psyche, and Spirit. At the Body level, the Chakras are experienced as seven nerve plexes located in ascending bodily regions from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. At the Psyche level, the Chakras are experienced as seven Stages of mental and emotional development. At the Spirit level, the Chakras are experienced as seven portals through which universal cosmic energy flows into our being. Thus, from an Eastern perspective, each Stage of development is simultaneously physical, psychological, and spiritual. (see D4, Architecture of Self)
§
Ex: “When my chiropractor gives me a sacral adjustment
(base of spine), I experience increased physical stability (body), emotional
grounding (psyche), and spiritual compassion (spirit). When he gives me an
atlas/axis adjustment (top of neck), I experience improved eyesight (body),
mental clarity (psyche), and spiritual exaltation (spirit).”
Ø D1/2d: The Generation Cycle
In our journey, the Generational Cycle is the dynastic tradition of seamanship, combat, and leadership passed down from father, to son, to grandson. Each Generation continues the tradition, but each modifies it according to their position among Generations.
In technical language, a Generation is a biological period of life, normally about 20-25 years, between the time one is born and the time one first procreates. According to Strauss and Howe,[12] dynamic cultures repeatedly pass through a Generation Cycle consisting of four characteristic Generations:
{ Prophetic. Conceives a new cultural vision and a new impetus for change.
{ Reactive. Reacts against or detaches from the dominance of the Prophetics.
{ Civic. Fills out and implements the vision of the Prophetics.
{ Bureaucratic. Institutionalizes and standardizes what once was the Prophetic Vision.
After the four Generations are complete, the cycle repeats all over again – but at a higher level of development. A small number of great people influence, dominate, and typify each Generation.
§ Ex: “Between the Civil War and the 1950’s, America passed through four Generations: Franklin Roosevelt and Frank Lloyd Wright (Prophetics), Hemingway and Bogart (Reactives), Disney and John Wayne (Civics), Walter Mondale and the Four Freshmen (Bureaucratics). In the 1960’s, a whole new Cycle began with the Beatles and Bill Gates (Prophetics).”
The Generation Cycle may be considered the cultural equivalent of the Transition Cycle (D1/2a) for individuals. It is a plausible scenario for how growth takes place at the cultural level.
Ø D1/2e: Collective Stages
Groups go through a sequence of developmental Stages very similar to individuals. Groups range in size and complexity from two-person relationships, to families, to teams, to workgroups, to communities, to whole societies and cultures.
§ Culture Passages
Culture Passages are the internal (cultural) and external (societal) phases of development that occur as mass populations progress through the Stages and Transitions of cultural development. Culture Passages follow a Stage-related growth path similar to individuals, but spread over eons of time. The Generation Cycle (D1/2d) is one possible description of how growth takes place at the Cultural level.
§ Spiral Dynamics
The Spiral Dynamics model is perhaps the most popular and influential contemporary system of Culture Passages. According to researchers Clare Graves and Don Beck, cultures have progressed in varying degrees through eight Stages of development[13] since the dawn of humanity.
Ø Ex: “The vanguard of our culture is now progressing out of the multi-national, Wall Street, assembly-line mentality -- and into the autonomous entrepreneurship of Silicon Valley, or into the communalistic ecological sensitivity of the ‘green’ era.”
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D3: State Growth
The States are the supremely illuminating moments in our journey when we commune with the gods. Like Odysseus, we receive from time to time visitations, edicts, and guidance from Athena, from Hermes, from Poseidon, and from Zeus.
In technical language, the States are the higher levels of consciousness experienced by mystics and translucents. Ken Wilber identifies the four higher States as: Nature Mysticism (Psychic), Deity Mysticism (Subtle), Formless Mysticism (Causal), Non-Dual Mysticism. In a broader sense, Natural States are the four normal, non-induced States of consciousness – waking/gross, dreaming/subtle, deep sleep/causal, and nondual. Altered States are non-normal, often-induced States – such as meditative States, mystical experiences, drug-induced States, and near-death experiences. Peak Experiences are temporary Altered States of exceptionally-high significance. Such experiences only contribute to sustained growth when they are converted by assimilation to Permanent States or Traits.
A particularly controversial and ‘thorny’ issue, States may be viewed (among other things) as the highest Stages of growth (D1), as a separate Line of development (D5), as the defining feature of a separate Realm (D4), or as an independent Dimension (D3).
State Growth occurs as we increase our capacity to move fluidly among the higher States of consciousness.
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D4: Realm growth
The Realms are the planes or spheres of existence in which our journey takes place. Like Odysseus, our journey may take us from everyday reality, through a series of magical islands, down into the underworld of the dead, into contact with the divine world of the gods, and then back to everyday, material reality again.
In technical language, Realms are the major spheres of human experience in which growth and development can occur – everyday Life, the Psyche, the Body, and the Spirit. Corresponding to these Realms, there are four major paths of human growth (called Passages) -- one external and three internal – each of which contains their own series of Stages and Transitions through which growth takes place. (see also P3d)
Realm Growth occurs as we grow simultaneously and differentially in all four Realms of consciousness. (See D5, Differential Growth) The Realms, with their corresponding Passages, are as follows:
Ø D4a: Life Passages
Life Passages are the external phases of accomplishment or Achievement that occur as we progress through the biological Life Cycle.
Ø D4b: Psyche Passages
Psyche Passages are the internal phases of mental Maturation that occur as we progress through the Stages of psychological Development.
Ø D4c: Body Passages (experienced)[14]
Body Passages are the internal phases of physical Enlivenment that occur as we awaken and connect the Energy Centers of our body.
Ø D4d: Spirit Passages
Spirit Passages are the internal phases of spiritual Enlightenment that occur as we ascend through the Stages and States of spiritual Development.
§ Ex: “As Christians and Jews, we honor the Spirit Passages of life with seven sacraments – ranging from baptism, communion, and confirmation to marriage, confession, and ordination – and finally to Extreme Unction at death.”[15]
The arrangement of the internal Realms may be called the Architecture of the Self. In the evolutionary process of increasing complexity, the Realms of Self were developed sequentially – first Body, then Psyche, then Spirit. However, as we see it, each new Realm was added to the existing ‘architectural’ structure as an additional mode of functionality. That is, the seven Chakral regions – originally only physical – took on psychological and spiritual functions as humans evolved. (Literally, a case of ‘transcend and include’!) The Self, then, is much like an old building that has been retrofitted – first with indoor plumbing, later with electricity, then with telephone, and finally with internet.
This Multiple-Functionality, or ‘Retrofit,’ configuration means that growth takes place simultaneously and in parallel in all three Realms. That is, in our view, we grow simultaneously in the Realms of Body, Psyche, and Spirit – within each of which there are a set of corresponding and parallel Stages and Transitions. This conjoining of Realms and Stages is best summarized and visualized using the Eastern version of the Chakras (D2d).
Ø Ex: “When my partner and I do Tantra, we feel a surge of Kundalini from the base of our spine to the crown of our head. We experience all seven Chakras in each of three ways -- through physical arousal, emotional bonding, and spiritual communion.”
{ D5: Arena growth
Arenas are the various
types of life improvement we may engage in, in the course of our travels.
Simultaneously, our journey may be a way to develop our seamanship, a means of
advancing our naval career, a merchant venture promising possible profit and enrichment,
a way to enhance our health and well-being, and a source of pleasure and enjoyment.
In technical language, Arenas are the various areas of our life where growth takes place.
§ Ex: “I live my everyday life in approximately ten Arenas – ranging from my career, to my finances, to my health, to my marriage.”
Within each Arena, there may be various Lines of development or Lines of inquiry.
§ Ex: “The Ethics & Morality Arena of Spirit Passages has two Lines – one for moral principles (values), the other for moral perspective (inclusiveness).”
Each Line may be investigated by a variety of Studies.[16]
§ Ex: “Wilber’s Ego/Self Line includes Studies by Sullivan, Erikson, Graves, and Kegan.”
At each Stage of life, and within each Arena, we grow by encountering certain key Issues. These challenging Issues must be addressed and resolved to transition successfully to the next Stage.
§ Ex: “In the Life Passages Realm, a major Issue for Young Adults is becoming economically and emotionally self-sufficient.”
§ Ex: “In the relationships Arena, I used to experiment and ‘play the field’ as an unattached teenager. Now that I’m a Young Adult, the Issue of finding a lifetime partner is becoming important to me.”
Arena Growth occurs as we grow within the various Arenas of each Realm. Arena Growth is a prime example of the phenomenon of Differential Growth. That is, in different Arenas, growth takes place at differing rates – resulting in people who are more advanced in one Arena than in another:
§ Ex: “I’m growing fine in the Career Arena – but need to catch up in the Relationship Arena.”
For each Realm, Arenas are characterized differently – either as spheres of action, or types of experience, or themes of development, or aspects of personal evolution. Each Realm has its own set of Arenas – the major ones being as follows:
Ø D5a: Life Arenas
The counseling and coaching professions often explicitly address at least ten Life Arenas:
§ Individual Arenas -- 1) Education & Skills-Building, 2) Career & Calling, 3) Finances & Investments, 4) Health & Well-Being, 5) Recreation & Enjoyment.
§ Collective Arenas -- 6) Relationships & Marriage, 7) Sexuality & Sensuality, 8) Family & Children, 9) Friendships & Community, 10) Society & Culture.
Ø D5b: Psyche Arenas
The psychological Studies from the Tables of Ken Wilber’s Integral Psychology break down into nine separate Arenas:
§ 1) Fundamental Needs, 2) Sexuality & Sensuality, 3) Affect & Emotions, 4) Ego/Experienced Self, 5) Leadership, 6) Cognition, 7) Art/ Aesthetics/ Creativity, 8) Ethics & Morality, and 9) Worldviews.
Ø D5c: Body Arenas (experienced)
[under development]
These Arenas will most likely be drawn from the fields that employ them – alternative medicine (chiropractic, acupuncture, Chinese medicine); experiential, body-oriented therapies (Reichian, Gestalt, sensory awareness); and body-oriented spiritual practices (yoga, Tantra).
Ø D5d: Spirit Arenas
[under development]
Wilber suggests as possible Spirit Arenas (‘Lines’): care, openness, concern, religious faith, and meditative stages.
An important aspect of Spirit Passages are Myths and Archetytpes. Myths are epic stories that convey foundational attributes of a culture. Archetypes are features of Myths that are expressive of common or collective human needs, instincts, or potentials. Archetypes and Myths are the products of an archaic Stage of cultural development. However, in our view, they also embody a subtle language that is potentially useful for describing, apprehending, accessing, and evoking many States of consciousness[17] – including the higher States.
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D6: Vector and
direction growth
We grow in four Quadrants and in four Vectors – but also in both Directions along those Vectors. Our growth is a cyclic flow between Polarities that goes through twin arcs of Evolution and Involution over the course of a lifetime.
Ø D6a: Quadrants of growth
The Quadrants are the four perspectives from which our journey may be viewed. Our journey may be seen as an exciting personal adventure (UL), as an opportunity for enhancing our wealth and position in life (UR), as a means of spreading the beliefs and values of our home culture (LL), and as an effort to open trade relations with remote nations (LR). Our voyage will be the most successful if it achieves all four types of objectives.
In technical language, the Quadrants are four basic perspectives, or aspects of existence, from which any growth experience can be viewed – internal/individual (upper-left), internal/external (upper-right),