From Subjective Experience to Cultural Change

This book emphasizes the evolving rather than homeostatic aspects of human behavior. Beginning with theories of complexity and self generation of behavior, Inghilleri emphasizes the central role of psychic functioning in the domain of biological and cultural evolution. Psychic processes, considered determined, autonomous, and generative with respect to the processes of biological and cultural evolution, are viewed in relation to greater processes of complexity and autonomy of organization. The theory of Self-Determination, developed by Deci and Ryan, and the theory of Flow, developed by Csikszentmihalyi, are considered from this point of view. In addition, the theoretical framework offered by Inghilleri is tested in specific fields: academia, creativity, mental health, and culture change processes.

• Foreword by Csikszentmihalyi