Two Patterns of Transcendence

Abstract

Participant observation and open-ended interviews with Indian and English elderly who were recognized as spiritually mature provided data for evaluating Washburn's claim that a period of egoic regression precedes movement to the transpersonal level. Hermeneutical analysis of interview protocols and research notes indicated that half of those nominated in each sample had reached the transpersonal level, but of these, only about half gave indications of having undergone a regressive transition period. On the basis of this, and other internal evidence, support was found for Wilber's theory. Cross-cultural similarities at the higher levels of spiritual development are seen as providing support for the claims of the perennial philosophy.

A Chakra System Model of Lifespan Development

“…Limitations include constraints on identifying measurable constructs related to higher order chakras (e.g., Brow & Crown). However, research based on this theory could build upon the research designs used for wisdom-related studies as well as those previously conducted to validated theories of transcendence (Thomas, Brewer, Kraus, & Rosen, 1993). Conclusion R eturning to Kegan (1982), evolution from lower to higher order chakras (viewed as moving from "subject to object" according to his orders of consciousness model), represents a recursive process of meaning making applied to our personalized view of reality.…”