A major downfall of the Eurocentric paradigm is that functional autonomy can act as drive. This is not to be taken in the same sense as the circular reason that was a major criticism of the McDougal instinct theory,but the Eurocentric perspective offers no diversion to reformulation of hypotheses but simply find ways to accomodate new information onder the same umbrella. In other words it does not challenge the preset assumptions. Those preset assumptions are: -phenomena can be analyzed into its basic components -those basic components can be understood logically -the logic involves sequencing that can only be understood through the parameters of defined scientific boundaries,
The Eurocentric paradigm has become the domain of a few academic oligarchs supported by the idea that basic research will lead to understanding.But it lacks the ability to show its relevance to improving human life on the planet.In others word basic research has become functionally autonomous and may have more to do perseverating brain activity.The Golden Fleece awards were aimed at those activities involved in WOMBAT (Waste of money,brains,and time) I first saw this trend of functional autonomy acting as drive in two periods in the history of psychology - the scientist versus the practioner debate and the formulation of the APS and its breakaway from the APA. There is nothing wrong functional autonomy acting as drive.After all people can enjoy knowledge for knowledge's sake. But knowledge does not necessary mean truth .Ironically critical thinking skills are not certainties even though the approaches can become functionally autonomos and act as drive and self-entertaining. Whereas in most motivation paradigms there can be drive reduction or diversions to other pursuits,the funcional autonomy of the Eurocentric paradigm is a function pf the left brain activities which developed has minimal role for evolutionary man but provided entrapment and adaptation to domestication.Intelligence was never meant to be the be all and end all and this where functional autonomy of the Eurocentric paradigm has remained. Michael Sylvester,PhD Daytona Beach,Florida --- To make changes to your subscription contact: Bill Southerly (bsouthe...@frostburg.edu)
