Good Specimen
In Maslow's framework, the Good Specimen refers to the idea that humans have an inherent, biologically-based set of needs and drives that, when met, lead to optimal functioning and well-being. Maslow believed that fulfilling these needs reflects a kind of "normal" or "healthy" biology, where humans strive toward a higher more functional state of existence. This normative aspect implies that there is a biologically typical or "natural" way that humans are inclined to develop, when not interfered with and when given proper supports. [1] It is a phrase used by Maslow in his speculations and discussion of Human Potential.
Abraham Maslow Terms
B-Cognition, B-Realm, Big Problem, D-Cognition, D-Realm, Deficiency Diseases, Eupsychia, Eupsychian Theory, Good Person, Good Science, Good Society, Good Specimen, Hierarchy of Basic Needs, Hierarchy of Cognitive Needs, Human Diminution, Inner Signals, Intrinsic Consciousness, Normalcy, Normative Biology, Peak Experience, Plateau Experience, Real Self, Self-Actualization, Transcending Self-Actualizers, Transhumanistic
Syncretic Terms
Components of Eupsychia
Eupsychia > Good Person, Good Science, Good Society, Good Specimen
Related LP Terms
Good Specimen > Seven Essential Needs
Non-LP Related Terms
Notes
Maslow suggests that organisms incline in the direction of making proper choices for themselves, that is, they incline towards self-regulation, self-government, self-choice. "The organism has more tendency toward choosing health, growth, biological success than we would have thought a century ago. This is in general anti-authoritarian, anticontrolling. For me it brings back into serious focus the whole Taoistic point of view. not only as expressed in contemporary ecological and ethological studies. where we have learned not to intrude and to control. but for the human being it also means trusting more the child's own impulses toward growth and self-actualization." [2]
Footnotes
