Fred Luthans, Carolyn M. Youssef, and Bruce J. Avolio
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195187526
- eISBN:
- 9780199789863
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195187526.001.0001
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Organization Studies
This book draws from a foundation of positive psychology and recently emerging positive organizational behavior (POB). Its purpose is to introduce the untapped human resource capacity of ...
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This book draws from a foundation of positive psychology and recently emerging positive organizational behavior (POB). Its purpose is to introduce the untapped human resource capacity of psychological capital, or simply PsyCap. This PsyCap goes beyond traditionally recognized human and social capital and must meet the scientific criteria of theory, research, and valid measurement. To distinguish from other constructs in positive psychology and organizational behavior, to be included in PsyCap the resource capacity must also be “state-like” and thus open to development (as opposed to momentary states or fixed traits) and have performance impact. The positive psychological resource capacities that meet these PsyCap criteria — efficacy (confidence), hope, optimism, and resilience — are covered in separate chapters. These four resource capacities are conceptually and empirically distinct, but also have underlying common processes for striving to succeed and when in combination contribute to a higher-order, core construct of psychological capital. Besides these four, other potential positive constructs such as creativity, wisdom, well being, flow, humor, gratitude, forgiveness, emotional intelligence, spirituality, authenticity, and courage are covered in Chapters 6 and 7. The concluding Chapter 8 summarizes and presents the research demonstrating the performance impact of PsyCap, the PsyCap questionnaire (PCQ) for measurement and the PsyCap Intervention (PCI) for development. Utility analysis indicates that investing in the development of PsyCap can result in a very substantial return. In total, this book provides the theory, research, measure, and method of application for the new resource of Psychological Capital that can be developed and sustained for competitive advantage.Less
This book draws from a foundation of positive psychology and recently emerging positive organizational behavior (POB). Its purpose is to introduce the untapped human resource capacity of psychological capital, or simply PsyCap. This PsyCap goes beyond traditionally recognized human and social capital and must meet the scientific criteria of theory, research, and valid measurement. To distinguish from other constructs in positive psychology and organizational behavior, to be included in PsyCap the resource capacity must also be “state-like” and thus open to development (as opposed to momentary states or fixed traits) and have performance impact. The positive psychological resource capacities that meet these PsyCap criteria — efficacy (confidence), hope, optimism, and resilience — are covered in separate chapters. These four resource capacities are conceptually and empirically distinct, but also have underlying common processes for striving to succeed and when in combination contribute to a higher-order, core construct of psychological capital. Besides these four, other potential positive constructs such as creativity, wisdom, well being, flow, humor, gratitude, forgiveness, emotional intelligence, spirituality, authenticity, and courage are covered in Chapters 6 and 7. The concluding Chapter 8 summarizes and presents the research demonstrating the performance impact of PsyCap, the PsyCap questionnaire (PCQ) for measurement and the PsyCap Intervention (PCI) for development. Utility analysis indicates that investing in the development of PsyCap can result in a very substantial return. In total, this book provides the theory, research, measure, and method of application for the new resource of Psychological Capital that can be developed and sustained for competitive advantage.
Fred Luthans, Carolyn M. Youssef, and Bruce J. Avolio
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195187526
- eISBN:
- 9780199789863
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195187526.003.0004
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Organization Studies
This chapter first defines PsyCap optimism by using Martin Seligman's explanatory or attribution style, i.e., optimists take credit for positive events in their lives and for negative events ...
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This chapter first defines PsyCap optimism by using Martin Seligman's explanatory or attribution style, i.e., optimists take credit for positive events in their lives and for negative events attribute to the external, temporary, and specific to the situation causes. After noting other conceptions of optimism based on emotional dimensions and future expectations, emphasis is given to the realistic and flexible qualifiers of PsyCap optimism. The remainder of the chapter then makes the case for the importance of optimism at the employee, organizational leader, and overall organizational levels. Specific attention is given to developing realistic optimism in today's workforce. The concluding sections recognize some of the potential pitfalls and point to future directions for research and practice.Less
This chapter first defines PsyCap optimism by using Martin Seligman's explanatory or attribution style, i.e., optimists take credit for positive events in their lives and for negative events attribute to the external, temporary, and specific to the situation causes. After noting other conceptions of optimism based on emotional dimensions and future expectations, emphasis is given to the realistic and flexible qualifiers of PsyCap optimism. The remainder of the chapter then makes the case for the importance of optimism at the employee, organizational leader, and overall organizational levels. Specific attention is given to developing realistic optimism in today's workforce. The concluding sections recognize some of the potential pitfalls and point to future directions for research and practice.
Robert Heilbroner
- Published in print:
- 1996
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195102864
- eISBN:
- 9780199854974
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195102864.001.0001
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Behavioural Economics
“This is an exceedingly long short book, stretching at least fifty thousand years into the past and who knows how many into the future…” So begins this book, the basic premise of which is stunning in ...
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“This is an exceedingly long short book, stretching at least fifty thousand years into the past and who knows how many into the future…” So begins this book, the basic premise of which is stunning in its elegant simplicity. The book contends that throughout all of human history there have really only been three distinct ways of looking at the future. In the Distant Past (Prehistory to the 17th century) there was no notion of a future measurably and materially different from the present or the past. In the period the book calls Yesterday (1700–1950), science, capitalism, and democracy gave humanity an unwavering faith in the superiority of the future. While Today, we feel a palpable anxiety that is quite apart from both the resignation of the Distant Past or the bright optimism of Yesterday.Less
“This is an exceedingly long short book, stretching at least fifty thousand years into the past and who knows how many into the future…” So begins this book, the basic premise of which is stunning in its elegant simplicity. The book contends that throughout all of human history there have really only been three distinct ways of looking at the future. In the Distant Past (Prehistory to the 17th century) there was no notion of a future measurably and materially different from the present or the past. In the period the book calls Yesterday (1700–1950), science, capitalism, and democracy gave humanity an unwavering faith in the superiority of the future. While Today, we feel a palpable anxiety that is quite apart from both the resignation of the Distant Past or the bright optimism of Yesterday.
Tim Mulgan
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- May 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199282203
- eISBN:
- 9780191603624
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/019928220X.003.0007
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy
This chapter begins with a basic list of intuitively plausible principles of intergenerational justice, against which Rule Consequentialism can be measured. It then establishes the Rule ...
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This chapter begins with a basic list of intuitively plausible principles of intergenerational justice, against which Rule Consequentialism can be measured. It then establishes the Rule Consequentialist commitment to political liberty and shows how that commitment is strengthened in the intergenerational case. It is shown that Rule Consequentialism copes with the possibility of future declines in aggregate well-being much better than its opponents, such as Rawls’s liberalism. This is illustrated using the current dispute between growth optimists and ecological pessimists.Less
This chapter begins with a basic list of intuitively plausible principles of intergenerational justice, against which Rule Consequentialism can be measured. It then establishes the Rule Consequentialist commitment to political liberty and shows how that commitment is strengthened in the intergenerational case. It is shown that Rule Consequentialism copes with the possibility of future declines in aggregate well-being much better than its opponents, such as Rawls’s liberalism. This is illustrated using the current dispute between growth optimists and ecological pessimists.
Martin Schöneld
- Published in print:
- 2000
- Published Online:
- May 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195132182
- eISBN:
- 9780199786336
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195132181.003.0006
- Subject:
- Philosophy, History of Philosophy
This chapter explores Kant’s second book, Universal Natural History and Theory of the Heavens (1755). Section 1 describes the context of the book and Kant’s critique of static and anthropocentric ...
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This chapter explores Kant’s second book, Universal Natural History and Theory of the Heavens (1755). Section 1 describes the context of the book and Kant’s critique of static and anthropocentric conceptions of nature by the Pietists, Physico-Theologians, Newton, and Wolff. Section 2 describes the goal of Kant’s teleology, its naturalized thrust toward well-ordered complexity or “relative perfection.” Section 3 examines the means of Kant”s teleology, the dynamic interplay of attractive and repulsive forces. Section 4 analyzes the application of teleology to cosmic phenomena such as the solar system, Wright’s earlier stipulation, Laplace’s later conjecture, and the eventual confirmation of Kant’s nebular hypothesis. Section 5 explores Kant’s arguments for life, humanity, and reason as products of cosmic evolution. Section 6 discusses Kant’s “static law” — that the mean planetary density determines the biospherical potential of reason — and its incongruity with the racism in Physical Geography (1756-60) and Beautiful and Sublime (1764). Section 7 describes Kant’s dynamic cosmology, explicates his “phoenix”-symbol, and discusses his various scientific aperçus.Less
This chapter explores Kant’s second book, Universal Natural History and Theory of the Heavens (1755). Section 1 describes the context of the book and Kant’s critique of static and anthropocentric conceptions of nature by the Pietists, Physico-Theologians, Newton, and Wolff. Section 2 describes the goal of Kant’s teleology, its naturalized thrust toward well-ordered complexity or “relative perfection.” Section 3 examines the means of Kant”s teleology, the dynamic interplay of attractive and repulsive forces. Section 4 analyzes the application of teleology to cosmic phenomena such as the solar system, Wright’s earlier stipulation, Laplace’s later conjecture, and the eventual confirmation of Kant’s nebular hypothesis. Section 5 explores Kant’s arguments for life, humanity, and reason as products of cosmic evolution. Section 6 discusses Kant’s “static law” — that the mean planetary density determines the biospherical potential of reason — and its incongruity with the racism in Physical Geography (1756-60) and Beautiful and Sublime (1764). Section 7 describes Kant’s dynamic cosmology, explicates his “phoenix”-symbol, and discusses his various scientific aperçus.
Martin Schöneld
- Published in print:
- 2000
- Published Online:
- May 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195132182
- eISBN:
- 9780199786336
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195132181.003.0009
- Subject:
- Philosophy, History of Philosophy
This chapter explores Kant’s third book, The Only Possible Argument in Support of a Demonstration of God’s Existence (1764). Section 1 surveys Kant’s development after his professorial thesis (1756): ...
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This chapter explores Kant’s third book, The Only Possible Argument in Support of a Demonstration of God’s Existence (1764). Section 1 surveys Kant’s development after his professorial thesis (1756): the West Winds essay (1757); Motion and Rest (1758) and its sequel Directions in Space (1768); the Optimism essay (1759), the project of a “Children’s Physics” (1759), and the False Subtlety treatise (1762). Section 2 explains the organization of Kant’s third book and how the two arguments for God’s existence derive from a joint demonstrative basis. Section 3 analyzes Kant’s conceptual proof for God’s existence and the rigor of its logical structure.Less
This chapter explores Kant’s third book, The Only Possible Argument in Support of a Demonstration of God’s Existence (1764). Section 1 surveys Kant’s development after his professorial thesis (1756): the West Winds essay (1757); Motion and Rest (1758) and its sequel Directions in Space (1768); the Optimism essay (1759), the project of a “Children’s Physics” (1759), and the False Subtlety treatise (1762). Section 2 explains the organization of Kant’s third book and how the two arguments for God’s existence derive from a joint demonstrative basis. Section 3 analyzes Kant’s conceptual proof for God’s existence and the rigor of its logical structure.
G. Anandalingam and Henry C. Lucas
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195177404
- eISBN:
- 9780199789559
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195177404.001.0001
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Strategy
In the case of an acquisition or a merger, it is very often the case that when an individual or company perceives itself to be the winner, subsequent events will show that the victory was overvalued. ...
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In the case of an acquisition or a merger, it is very often the case that when an individual or company perceives itself to be the winner, subsequent events will show that the victory was overvalued. Both psychological and market based forces often lead managers to greatly overestimate what they are buying, resulting in the “winner’s curse”. In an effort to grow their companies, competitive and overly confident managers with high compensation packages make rash decisions. The pressure put on values by the stock market, stock analysts, and investment bankers is coupled with the presence of a bidding psychology. When senior management experiences “buyer’s remorse”, having made overly optimistic forecasts about the future of the company, a true financial “curse” often ensues. In the event that a company does “win” by making it to the top of its industry, complacency or hubris caused by a sense of invulnerability often conspire to move the company out of the winner’s column. This book examines the phenomenon of the “winner’s curse”. It presents a number of cases illustrating the curse, and examines the reasons for it in each instance. It also looks at situations where CEOs decided to walk away from “winning” because of their sober ability to trade-off the risks of winning versus the real returns. In particular, the last chapter presents a series of “take-aways” for any manager to follow to avoid the winner’s curse.Less
In the case of an acquisition or a merger, it is very often the case that when an individual or company perceives itself to be the winner, subsequent events will show that the victory was overvalued. Both psychological and market based forces often lead managers to greatly overestimate what they are buying, resulting in the “winner’s curse”. In an effort to grow their companies, competitive and overly confident managers with high compensation packages make rash decisions. The pressure put on values by the stock market, stock analysts, and investment bankers is coupled with the presence of a bidding psychology. When senior management experiences “buyer’s remorse”, having made overly optimistic forecasts about the future of the company, a true financial “curse” often ensues. In the event that a company does “win” by making it to the top of its industry, complacency or hubris caused by a sense of invulnerability often conspire to move the company out of the winner’s column. This book examines the phenomenon of the “winner’s curse”. It presents a number of cases illustrating the curse, and examines the reasons for it in each instance. It also looks at situations where CEOs decided to walk away from “winning” because of their sober ability to trade-off the risks of winning versus the real returns. In particular, the last chapter presents a series of “take-aways” for any manager to follow to avoid the winner’s curse.
Fred Luthans, Carolyn M. Youssef, and Bruce J. Avolio
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195187526
- eISBN:
- 9780199789863
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195187526.003.0001
- Subject:
- Business and Management, Organization Studies
This introductory chapter provides the meaning and overview of psychological capital or PsyCap. After first providing the current perspective and need for PsyCap, attention is given to the ...
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This introductory chapter provides the meaning and overview of psychological capital or PsyCap. After first providing the current perspective and need for PsyCap, attention is given to the contributions of positive psychology, positive organizational scholarship (POS), and positive organizational behavior (POB). Particular emphasis is given to the POB definitional inclusion criteria of theory, research, measurement, “state-like” development, and performance impact. The balance of the chapter then introduces the criteria-meeting positive resource capacities of self-efficacy (confidence), hope, optimism, and resiliency and, when combined, the second-order, core construct of psychological capital. The concluding sections support psychological capital as a type of psychological resource theory, how it is measured and developed, and future directions for research and practice.Less
This introductory chapter provides the meaning and overview of psychological capital or PsyCap. After first providing the current perspective and need for PsyCap, attention is given to the contributions of positive psychology, positive organizational scholarship (POS), and positive organizational behavior (POB). Particular emphasis is given to the POB definitional inclusion criteria of theory, research, measurement, “state-like” development, and performance impact. The balance of the chapter then introduces the criteria-meeting positive resource capacities of self-efficacy (confidence), hope, optimism, and resiliency and, when combined, the second-order, core construct of psychological capital. The concluding sections support psychological capital as a type of psychological resource theory, how it is measured and developed, and future directions for research and practice.
Mark Chaves
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691146850
- eISBN:
- 9781400839957
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691146850.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This introductory chapter discusses the continuity in American religiosity between 1972 and 2008. Some might see American optimism reflected in the fact that more people believe in heaven than in ...
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This introductory chapter discusses the continuity in American religiosity between 1972 and 2008. Some might see American optimism reflected in the fact that more people believe in heaven than in hell. Others might see American individualism reflected in the fact that more people think that God is concerned about human beings personally than say that they know God exists, or in the fact that following one's conscience ranks higher than following the teachings of one's religion on the list of what it means to be a good Christian or Jew. The chapter emphasizes that these items all share the remarkable characteristic that none of them has changed much in recent decades. By world standards, Americans remain remarkably religious in both belief and practice.Less
This introductory chapter discusses the continuity in American religiosity between 1972 and 2008. Some might see American optimism reflected in the fact that more people believe in heaven than in hell. Others might see American individualism reflected in the fact that more people think that God is concerned about human beings personally than say that they know God exists, or in the fact that following one's conscience ranks higher than following the teachings of one's religion on the list of what it means to be a good Christian or Jew. The chapter emphasizes that these items all share the remarkable characteristic that none of them has changed much in recent decades. By world standards, Americans remain remarkably religious in both belief and practice.
Mark S. Cladis
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195125542
- eISBN:
- 9780199834082
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195125541.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
Cladis reflects on the nature and place of the public and private in the work of Rousseau and, more generally, in democratic society. The tension between the hopes and desires of the individual and ...
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Cladis reflects on the nature and place of the public and private in the work of Rousseau and, more generally, in democratic society. The tension between the hopes and desires of the individual and the requirements of a shared public life was at the heart, or the knot, of Rousseau's life and thought. Cladis leads the reader on an exploration of the conflicting claims with which Rousseau wrestled – prerogatives and obligations to self, friends, family, vocation, civic life, and humanity. At the juncture of diverse theological and secular traditions, including Enlightenment optimism and Augustinian pessimism, Rousseau forged a vision of human happiness found not exclusively in the public or private, but in a complex combination of the two.In Part I, Cladis employs the Garden–Fall myth to narrate Rousseau's rather dismal account of the human journey into social life. Yet, contrary to most interpreters of Rousseau, Cladis maintains that if we categorically identify the natural with the good and the social with evil, we fail to do justice to Rousseau's provocative account of our joy and sorrow in solitude and community. Part II explores the limits and possibilities of Rousseau's three paths to partial redemption – the public path (the reformed society), the private path (the escape into solitude), and the tense, middle way between them.Throughout this study, Cladis listens closely to the religious pitch in Rousseau's voice. He shows that Rousseau, when attempting to portray the most characteristic aspects of the public and private, reached for a religious vocabulary. Honoring both love of self and love of that which is larger than the self – these twin poles, with all the tension between them – mark Rousseau's work, vision, and challenge – the challenge of twenty‐first century democracy.Less
Cladis reflects on the nature and place of the public and private in the work of Rousseau and, more generally, in democratic society. The tension between the hopes and desires of the individual and the requirements of a shared public life was at the heart, or the knot, of Rousseau's life and thought. Cladis leads the reader on an exploration of the conflicting claims with which Rousseau wrestled – prerogatives and obligations to self, friends, family, vocation, civic life, and humanity. At the juncture of diverse theological and secular traditions, including Enlightenment optimism and Augustinian pessimism, Rousseau forged a vision of human happiness found not exclusively in the public or private, but in a complex combination of the two.
In Part I, Cladis employs the Garden–Fall myth to narrate Rousseau's rather dismal account of the human journey into social life. Yet, contrary to most interpreters of Rousseau, Cladis maintains that if we categorically identify the natural with the good and the social with evil, we fail to do justice to Rousseau's provocative account of our joy and sorrow in solitude and community. Part II explores the limits and possibilities of Rousseau's three paths to partial redemption – the public path (the reformed society), the private path (the escape into solitude), and the tense, middle way between them.
Throughout this study, Cladis listens closely to the religious pitch in Rousseau's voice. He shows that Rousseau, when attempting to portray the most characteristic aspects of the public and private, reached for a religious vocabulary. Honoring both love of self and love of that which is larger than the self – these twin poles, with all the tension between them – mark Rousseau's work, vision, and challenge – the challenge of twenty‐first century democracy.
Hans Joas and Wolfgang Knöbl
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691150840
- eISBN:
- 9781400844746
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691150840.003.0003
- Subject:
- Sociology, Social Theory
This chapter examines how the progressive optimism nourished by liberal doctrines gradually began to take hold and how sociology as a discipline took a particularly wide variety of institutional ...
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This chapter examines how the progressive optimism nourished by liberal doctrines gradually began to take hold and how sociology as a discipline took a particularly wide variety of institutional forms and featured very different theoretical and research programs. Toward the end of the eighteenth and during the first third of the nineteenth centuries, utilitarians such as Jeremy Bentham and later James and John Stuart Mill were already singing the praises of free trade and its peace-promoting effects. This laid the foundations for at least one strand of liberal thought in the nineteenth century, on which early “sociologists” such as Auguste Comte and Herbert Spencer could then build. Despite the hegemonic status of liberal doctrines, other views were always present beneath the surface. This includes Marxism, which in many respects embraced the legacy of liberalism.Less
This chapter examines how the progressive optimism nourished by liberal doctrines gradually began to take hold and how sociology as a discipline took a particularly wide variety of institutional forms and featured very different theoretical and research programs. Toward the end of the eighteenth and during the first third of the nineteenth centuries, utilitarians such as Jeremy Bentham and later James and John Stuart Mill were already singing the praises of free trade and its peace-promoting effects. This laid the foundations for at least one strand of liberal thought in the nineteenth century, on which early “sociologists” such as Auguste Comte and Herbert Spencer could then build. Despite the hegemonic status of liberal doctrines, other views were always present beneath the surface. This includes Marxism, which in many respects embraced the legacy of liberalism.
David Benatar
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199296422
- eISBN:
- 9780191712005
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199296422.003.0007
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy
This chapter first responds to the objection that the book's conclusions should be rejected on the grounds that they are counter-intuitive. The chapter then responds to the optimist and defends ...
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This chapter first responds to the objection that the book's conclusions should be rejected on the grounds that they are counter-intuitive. The chapter then responds to the optimist and defends pessimism. It is also argued that anti-natalism does not imply that death is never bad or that everybody ought to practice suicide. Nor are the conclusions of this book necessarily incompatible with religious views. Finally, it is argued that although there are excellent misanthropic reasons for not producing more people, the arguments in this book are philanthropic.Less
This chapter first responds to the objection that the book's conclusions should be rejected on the grounds that they are counter-intuitive. The chapter then responds to the optimist and defends pessimism. It is also argued that anti-natalism does not imply that death is never bad or that everybody ought to practice suicide. Nor are the conclusions of this book necessarily incompatible with religious views. Finally, it is argued that although there are excellent misanthropic reasons for not producing more people, the arguments in this book are philanthropic.
Richard Crouter
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- September 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379679
- eISBN:
- 9780199869169
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379679.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This book’s final chapter inquires into the consequences of living in the light of Niebuhr’s complex teaching. The illusions of naive optimism reign today just as in his lifetime. Niebuhr’s legacy of ...
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This book’s final chapter inquires into the consequences of living in the light of Niebuhr’s complex teaching. The illusions of naive optimism reign today just as in his lifetime. Niebuhr’s legacy of critical Christian thought invites us to reflect on the need for self-knowledge, doubt, and toleration in today’s world. Niebuhr’s Christian social ethics appreciates the advances of the natural and social sciences without placing supreme confidence in their authority and certitude. His hard-edged realism is badly needed in a world full of wishful thinking; self-critical Niebuhrianism is the best response to the new atheistic critics, such as Christopher Hitchens. Niebuhr agrees with contemporary novelist Marilynne Robinson and literary critic Terry Eagleton that supreme certitude yields an attitude that makes “Christianity un-Christian.” His sense of human limits does not negate human achievement so much as it puts human hope into a grander, more complex way of understanding.Less
This book’s final chapter inquires into the consequences of living in the light of Niebuhr’s complex teaching. The illusions of naive optimism reign today just as in his lifetime. Niebuhr’s legacy of critical Christian thought invites us to reflect on the need for self-knowledge, doubt, and toleration in today’s world. Niebuhr’s Christian social ethics appreciates the advances of the natural and social sciences without placing supreme confidence in their authority and certitude. His hard-edged realism is badly needed in a world full of wishful thinking; self-critical Niebuhrianism is the best response to the new atheistic critics, such as Christopher Hitchens. Niebuhr agrees with contemporary novelist Marilynne Robinson and literary critic Terry Eagleton that supreme certitude yields an attitude that makes “Christianity un-Christian.” His sense of human limits does not negate human achievement so much as it puts human hope into a grander, more complex way of understanding.
Emma Rothschild and Amartya Sen
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691159904
- eISBN:
- 9781400848409
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691159904.003.0017
- Subject:
- Sociology, Social Theory
This concluding chapter examines the enduring legacy of Hirschman's works. One reason for this is that his “world-view” is a skeptical optimism; another is a series of ideas, including explanatory ...
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This concluding chapter examines the enduring legacy of Hirschman's works. One reason for this is that his “world-view” is a skeptical optimism; another is a series of ideas, including explanatory arguments, that are themselves simple enough: exit and voice, or passions and interests, or obstacles and development. There is very little sense, in Hirschman's writing, of complexity or involution as a condition that is creditable in itself. He was an inspiring critic of successive varieties of economic thought, but his ideas cannot be mapped in any straightforward way on to a dichotomy of the “orthodox” versus the “heterodox,” the “rational” versus the “fully empirical,” or the “thin” versus the “thickly descriptive.” He aspired to both, and he embraced the conflict between them.Less
This concluding chapter examines the enduring legacy of Hirschman's works. One reason for this is that his “world-view” is a skeptical optimism; another is a series of ideas, including explanatory arguments, that are themselves simple enough: exit and voice, or passions and interests, or obstacles and development. There is very little sense, in Hirschman's writing, of complexity or involution as a condition that is creditable in itself. He was an inspiring critic of successive varieties of economic thought, but his ideas cannot be mapped in any straightforward way on to a dichotomy of the “orthodox” versus the “heterodox,” the “rational” versus the “fully empirical,” or the “thin” versus the “thickly descriptive.” He aspired to both, and he embraced the conflict between them.
Mark Schroeder
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199534654
- eISBN:
- 9780191715938
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199534654.003.0001
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Language
This chapter introduces metaethical expressivism, explains its main sources of interest over earlier noncognitivist theories, and illustrates how it has been applied to many topics across all ...
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This chapter introduces metaethical expressivism, explains its main sources of interest over earlier noncognitivist theories, and illustrates how it has been applied to many topics across all different areas of philosophy. The progress which proponents such as Allan Gibbard and Simon Blackburn have made in developing expressivist theories is contrasted sharply with five major problems which remain unsolved, starting with an adequate account of what ‘express’ means. The concept of an argument from ‘license for optimism’ is introduced, and contrasted with the project of actually constructing an expressivist semantic theory. Finally, the chapter announces the main conclusions of the book and lays out its organization.Less
This chapter introduces metaethical expressivism, explains its main sources of interest over earlier noncognitivist theories, and illustrates how it has been applied to many topics across all different areas of philosophy. The progress which proponents such as Allan Gibbard and Simon Blackburn have made in developing expressivist theories is contrasted sharply with five major problems which remain unsolved, starting with an adequate account of what ‘express’ means. The concept of an argument from ‘license for optimism’ is introduced, and contrasted with the project of actually constructing an expressivist semantic theory. Finally, the chapter announces the main conclusions of the book and lays out its organization.
Richard Wayne Wills Sr
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195308990
- eISBN:
- 9780199867578
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195308990.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter provides a theological summary of King’s image of God conception and provides an overview of the implications attached to King’s theological anthropology. As such, this chapter provides ...
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This chapter provides a theological summary of King’s image of God conception and provides an overview of the implications attached to King’s theological anthropology. As such, this chapter provides a necessary reconsideration of King’s approach to theology with respect to his understanding of civil rights, his theological relationship to the black church, and the degree to which his mediated conception of human nature—particularly during his latter years—led to a dialectical tension between that of his anthropology and his heightened eschatological view. At bottom, it can be said that King shared aspects of black church theology, but he did so without wholly rejecting liberalism’s spirit of optimism regarding human progress.Less
This chapter provides a theological summary of King’s image of God conception and provides an overview of the implications attached to King’s theological anthropology. As such, this chapter provides a necessary reconsideration of King’s approach to theology with respect to his understanding of civil rights, his theological relationship to the black church, and the degree to which his mediated conception of human nature—particularly during his latter years—led to a dialectical tension between that of his anthropology and his heightened eschatological view. At bottom, it can be said that King shared aspects of black church theology, but he did so without wholly rejecting liberalism’s spirit of optimism regarding human progress.
Valerie Tiberius
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199202867
- eISBN:
- 9780191707988
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199202867.003.0006
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy
This chapter aims to characterize cynicism and optimism, and argues that cynicism (properly understood) is a vice, and optimism (properly understood) is a virtue. It distinguishes cynicism from what ...
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This chapter aims to characterize cynicism and optimism, and argues that cynicism (properly understood) is a vice, and optimism (properly understood) is a virtue. It distinguishes cynicism from what we might call ‘being realistic’, which is often beneficial. The argument for considering optimism to be a virtue requires locating the appropriate mean between cynicism and a kind of foolish optimism, or being a Pangloss, which is often harmful. It is shown that cynicism hinders both the cognitive and the affective components of our capacity for endorsement by influencing our views about what is worthwhile and by dampening our positive attitudes toward others.Less
This chapter aims to characterize cynicism and optimism, and argues that cynicism (properly understood) is a vice, and optimism (properly understood) is a virtue. It distinguishes cynicism from what we might call ‘being realistic’, which is often beneficial. The argument for considering optimism to be a virtue requires locating the appropriate mean between cynicism and a kind of foolish optimism, or being a Pangloss, which is often harmful. It is shown that cynicism hinders both the cognitive and the affective components of our capacity for endorsement by influencing our views about what is worthwhile and by dampening our positive attitudes toward others.
Leslie R. Martin, Kelly B. Haskard-Zolnierek, and M. Robin DiMatteo
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195380408
- eISBN:
- 9780199864454
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195380408.003.0002
- Subject:
- Psychology, Social Psychology
This chapter explores the factors that influence people to initially adopt, and then to pursue, a health-related goal. These include things such as social comparisons, emotions (e.g., fear or ...
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This chapter explores the factors that influence people to initially adopt, and then to pursue, a health-related goal. These include things such as social comparisons, emotions (e.g., fear or inspiration), logical reasoning, pressure from others, and a sense of self-efficacy. The most appropriate uses of upward and downward comparisons are examined, and the importance of one’s sense of competence and self-esteem when setting goals is discussed. The elements of persuasive messages (and messengers) are described, along with suggestions for how healthcare providers might make their own communications with patients more compelling. Recognizing teachable moments is important, as is knowing the unique characteristics of the patient in order to target persuasive messages most effectively. Factors that influence perseverance, such as expectations, optimism, self-efficacy, social support, and perceptions of benefits and costs are also evaluated.Less
This chapter explores the factors that influence people to initially adopt, and then to pursue, a health-related goal. These include things such as social comparisons, emotions (e.g., fear or inspiration), logical reasoning, pressure from others, and a sense of self-efficacy. The most appropriate uses of upward and downward comparisons are examined, and the importance of one’s sense of competence and self-esteem when setting goals is discussed. The elements of persuasive messages (and messengers) are described, along with suggestions for how healthcare providers might make their own communications with patients more compelling. Recognizing teachable moments is important, as is knowing the unique characteristics of the patient in order to target persuasive messages most effectively. Factors that influence perseverance, such as expectations, optimism, self-efficacy, social support, and perceptions of benefits and costs are also evaluated.
James L. Crenshaw
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- July 2005
- ISBN:
- 9780195140026
- eISBN:
- 9780199835607
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195140028.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies
Psalms 77 and 104 present opposing worldviews: pessimism and optimism. Beliefs about reality are shaped by the circumstances of ordinary existence, which in turn become occasions for existential ...
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Psalms 77 and 104 present opposing worldviews: pessimism and optimism. Beliefs about reality are shaped by the circumstances of ordinary existence, which in turn become occasions for existential anxiety arising from moral, natural, and religious evil. Their consequences, suffering and death, evoke a defense of God in the pious. Theodicy, the impulse to defend a deity, who is believed to be both merciful and just in Exod 34:6–7, and its many manifestations is the subject of this book.Less
Psalms 77 and 104 present opposing worldviews: pessimism and optimism. Beliefs about reality are shaped by the circumstances of ordinary existence, which in turn become occasions for existential anxiety arising from moral, natural, and religious evil. Their consequences, suffering and death, evoke a defense of God in the pious. Theodicy, the impulse to defend a deity, who is believed to be both merciful and just in Exod 34:6–7, and its many manifestations is the subject of this book.
Mark Brown
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- July 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780719073960
- eISBN:
- 9781781700945
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Manchester University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7228/manchester/9780719073960.001.0001
- Subject:
- Literature, 20th-century and Contemporary Literature
This book provides an extended analysis of Paul Auster's essays, poetry, fiction, films and collaborative projects. It explores his key themes of identity; language and writing; metropolitan living ...
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This book provides an extended analysis of Paul Auster's essays, poetry, fiction, films and collaborative projects. It explores his key themes of identity; language and writing; metropolitan living and community; and storytelling and illusion. By tracing how Auster's representations of New York and city life have matured from a position of urban nihilism to qualified optimism, the book shows how the variety of forms he works in influences the treatment of his central concerns. The chapters are organised around gradually extending spaces to reflect the way in which Auster's work broadens its focus, beginning with the poet's room and finishing with the global metropolis of New York: his home city and often his muse. The book uses Auster's published and unpublished literary essays to explain the shifts from the dense and introspective poems of the 1970s, through the metropolitan fictions of the 1980s and early 1990s, to the relatively optimistic and critically acclaimed films, and his return to fiction in recent years.Less
This book provides an extended analysis of Paul Auster's essays, poetry, fiction, films and collaborative projects. It explores his key themes of identity; language and writing; metropolitan living and community; and storytelling and illusion. By tracing how Auster's representations of New York and city life have matured from a position of urban nihilism to qualified optimism, the book shows how the variety of forms he works in influences the treatment of his central concerns. The chapters are organised around gradually extending spaces to reflect the way in which Auster's work broadens its focus, beginning with the poet's room and finishing with the global metropolis of New York: his home city and often his muse. The book uses Auster's published and unpublished literary essays to explain the shifts from the dense and introspective poems of the 1970s, through the metropolitan fictions of the 1980s and early 1990s, to the relatively optimistic and critically acclaimed films, and his return to fiction in recent years.
