Participating in Paradox
An Integrative Framework
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 9057802 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Brian L Wheeler (0000-0002-7436-6422, California Institute of Integral Studies, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2023 |
| Volume | 63 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Pages | 276-305 |
| Publication date | 2023-05-01 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Journal of Humanistic Psychology (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0022-1678 • E-ISSN: 1552-650X |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/0022167820965100 |
| OpenAlex | W3094309276 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 48 |
Drawing from Alan Watts’s philosophy of paradox, this essay aims to articulate an integrative framework of ontological paradox (i.e., that all aspects of existence feature distinct and integral dimensions). The metaphysical tenet of separation, which undergirds scientific materialism and denies humanity’s embedded place in the world, is merely one pattern of participating in such a paradox. What then are the different types of ways, beyond a materialistic ontology, in which individuals can relate to and participate in the ever-evolving whole of existence (and whole of themselves)? Spanning the fields of philosophy, science, psychology, religion, and mysticism, this integrative inquiry seeks to reconcile and synthesize a broad range of orientations to ontological paradox into a greater frame of reference. The result is the limb and pillar matrix. Providing an alienation-integration spectrum that applies to both internal/micro paradox (i.e., the relation of one’s self to oneself) and external/macro paradox (i.e., the relation of self to the cosmic whole), the limb and pillar matrix consists of five key questions or “pillars” and seven “limbs” or patterns of participating in paradox. The pillars of paradox relate to (a) the existence and (b) resolvability of ontological paradox, as well as (c) access, (d) progressive resolution, and (e) stabilization of resolution (i.e., full integration). The limbs of paradox establish seven multivalent participatory patterns: ignorance, denial, deferment, bypass, transcendence, resolution, and dissolution
Alienation · Contemplation · Epistemology · Materialism · Relation (database) · Sociology · Transcendence (philosophy) · Computer Science · Philosophy · Psychedelics and Drug Studies · Religious Studies and Spiritual Practices · Social Representations and Identity
Participation and the Mystery
Panentheism across the World's Traditions
Entangled Worlds
Self-determination theory
Keeping the Account Open
Moving Beyond Materialism
Entheogens
Paradox and health
Tapping the humanistic potential of self-determination theory
Lifespan human development and “the humanistic perspective”
Sacred dialectic
To be and not to be
Gradual and Sudden Enlightenment
Philosophers Speak of God
A Wattsian Perspective on Life’s Ultimate Riddle
Albert Camus, Ernest Becker, and the Art of Living in Existential Paradox
Psychedelic Psychotherapy
Making Room for it all
My Journey With Kierkegaard
Humanistic Psychology, Psychedelics, and the Transpersonal Vision
How Am I Not Myself?” Despair in Sickness Unto Death as Misguided Attempts Toward Self-Actualization
Better Understanding Psychosis
Extreme States and Extreme Conditions
The Paradox of Intention
Food of the Gods
Constructionism versus what
| Unique citing works | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citations per year | 0,5 |
| Citation span | 2024 - 2024 (1) |
| Citation velocity | recent |
| Highly cited | No |
| Citation types | Neutral: 1 |