Philosophical Psychology

About the Book

Philosophical Psychology contains many provocative and profound ideas, some of which may be sensed as offensive by those with rather thin intellectual skins. Some readers in capitalistic societies may take offense at any suggestion that Marx had some good insights about a healthier way to achieve self-actualization. Others may find it bizarre to read that perhaps Hitler and Stalin were in some ways happier and more self-actualized in their roles as brutal tyrants than they would have been in more “normal” roles.

The range of ideas and thinkers included in this work is extensive. Authors Dr. William F. O’Neill and Dr. George Demos examine essential life issues such as pain, pleasure, society, ethics, and love, culminating in a careful look at the various aspects of peak experience.

The chapters build toward a better understanding of the concepts of self-actualization and peak experience. This is essential reading for upper division and graduate level students seeking to deepen their understanding and apply the concepts of Abraham Maslow’s theory of self-actualization and its inherent role in education.

About the Author

William F. O’Neill is a professor emeritus at the University of Southern California, where he earned his PhD and taught for thirty-one years. He specializes in educational philosophy and international education and is the author of eight previous books.

George D. Demos is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor emeritus of counseling psychology at California State University–Long Beach. He is a graduate of USC in counseling clinical psychology.