Autonomy
Feeling that your actions are self-chosen and aligned with your values. Not independence. Not doing whatever you want. Not having many choices.
How do we know ourselves?
There are many models of self-understanding (values, strengths, personality). Some are evidence-based; many are oversimplified or poorly supported.
VARK learning styles
No strong evidence learning styles exist. Teaching to a learning style does not improve learning.
Myers-Briggs
Popular commercially but not supported by modern personality research. People are not binary.
Alpha-Beta-Sigma theory
Claims dominance hierarchies. Based on misinterpreted animal research. Promotes harmful stereotypes.
Alpha wolves myth
Alpha wolves come from captive studies. In the wild, wolf packs are families.
Four perspectives on self-understanding
Character strengths; Personality; Cultural values; Political values.
Aristotle on virtue
Virtues are positive traits developed through practice. Living virtuously leads to flourishing.
Character strengths (VIA)
24 strengths across cultures organized into 6 virtues. Everyone has a unique profile.
Signature strengths
Core strengths that are energizing and central to who you are.
Lesser strengths
Present but used less often; can be developed.
Top 5 strengths in troubling times
Honesty; Fairness; Judgment; Curiosity; Kindness.
The lexical approach
Important personality traits become encoded in language.
Outcome of lexical approach
Led to Big Five (OCEAN) and HEXACO.
Five-Factor Model
Five broad traits with multiple facets.
HEXACO model
Adds Honesty-Humility and reframes neuroticism as emotionality.
Dark Triad
Traits linked to crime, distress, and organizational problems.
Cultural values
Cultural norms influence thinking and behavior.
Major cultural models
Hofstede; GLOBE Project.
Hofstede cultural dimensions
6 national cultural value dimensions based on workplace research.
