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Chapter 12: Problem 6

Allport argues that the healthy adult shows compassion for the considerable difficulties in living faced by all human beings, and he is highly critical of the person who feels that "he and his kind matter, no one else. His church, his family, and his nation make a safe unit, but all else is alien, dangerous, [and] to be excluded from his petty formula for survival." Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The short answer will depend on each individual's opinion. It could range from agreeing with Allport's statement because it promotes empathy and universal compassion, to disagreeing because it dismisses the practical necessity for individuals to prioritize their community and loved ones.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Context

The first step in this discussion task is to comprehend Allport's view fully. He suggests that a healthy adult should possess compassion towards others hardships and criticizes individuals who see the world just from their and their community's perspectives, considering others as alien or a threat.
02

Reflect on the Statement

Once the sentiment behind Allport's statement is clear, the next step is to form an opinion about it. This step will vary for everyone as it is largely based on personal experiences, beliefs, and values. It's crucial to think deeply about Allport's statement and your perspective on the topic.
03

Formulate Argument

After forming an opinion, it's essential to articulate it compellingly. Begin by stating if you agree or disagree with Allport's perspective. Then, provide reasons for your viewpoint, citing personal experiences, studies, theories, or examples that support your stance. Try to explore diverse perspectives and remain respectful of differing opinions.
04

Conclusion

Lastly, wrap up your argument with a summary sentence or two. Recap your main points and opinion in brief. This will provide closure to your argument and strengthen your standpoint.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

(a) Consider the criticism of circularity regarding Allport's theory, and his statement that "a man likes blue because he likes blue." What does this imply about the ability of Allport's theory to explain human behavior? (b) Why might the idiographic approach favored by Allport imply that psychology can never become a true science?

(a) Allport stresses the conscious and concrete aspects of personality, whereas Freud prefers to probe deeply into the unconscious. Which approach do you prefer? Why? (b) Traits have proved much more popular among psychological researchers during the past few decades than psychoanalytic constructs. How can this be explained?

(a) Why might Allport's reaction to Freud's question during their meeting in 1920 ("And was that little boy you?") be regarded as excessive? What might this imply about Allport's personality? About his theory? (b) Allport regards the very young child as an "unsocialized horror." What might this imply about his personality? About his theory?

Consider this statement by Allport: "since we think about ourselves so much of the time, it is comforting to assume \(\ldots\) that we really know the score.... [But] this is not an easy assignment. [As] Santayana wrote, 'Nothing requires a rarer intellectual heroism than willingness to see one's equation written out." Do you agree or disagree? Why?

An explorer spends months in frozen wastelands, which involves severe hardships. A Kamikaze pilot sacrifices his life during World War II. Allport argues that these behaviors cannot be explained by a Freudian pleasure principle, since they are painful and unpleasant. How might Freud defend the pleasure principle in each case?
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