Spiral Dynamics is a theory of human development that explains how people adapt to new situations by creating a more complex conceptual model of the world. It is based on research by Clare W. Graves and is organized around a system of core values known as vMemes. Critics argue that the theory could lead to authoritarianism and elitism.
Spiral Dynamics addresses issues of nature and human development as outlined in the book Spiral Dynamics by Don Beck and Chris Cowan, published in 1996. National Values Center Inc. also owns Spiral Dynamics as a registered trademark. The theory holds that human nature is not constant or unchanging, but that people as a group can strategically adapt to new situations when the need arises. They do this by creating a more complex conceptual model of the world, which even though it contains the previous one, still transcends it. In basic terms, the spiral dynamic is about human motivations, opinions and reactions, and why they differ. Spiral dynamics aims to understand and explain human issues.
Spiral dynamics is based on research by Clare W. Graves in the 1930s which was called “The Theory of Levels of Human Existence”. Don Beck expanded on the original theory and brought it to the fore. The reason behind the current name “spiral dynamics” is to visualize human movement through various stages of development. If we imagine a spiral that encloses an ever larger circumference as it goes, and yet maintains the same center with each revolution, this has many similarities to the theory explained in Beck and Cowan’s book. Each new conceptual model is organized around a system of core values that can be applied both to individuals and to entire cultures. These value systems are known as vMemes, with the “v” standing for “values,” because they express themselves as memes that ripple through society.
Proponents of this theory say that its experienced application allows someone to analyze both collective and individual aspects of behaviors and cultures. The vMemes described by Spiral Dynamics are color-coded by organization and describe the prevailing systems of values that have governed people and cultures at different points in world history. Each new thought system modifies and builds upon the previous one and seeks to solve all the problems created by the old ways of life. The theory also states that each vMeme can be applied in both positive and negative ways. This pattern continues to this day.
There are also critics of Spiral Dynamics. Some critics argue that the theory could lead to authoritarianism and elitism. They could mention how the theory classifies individuals into various levels. Proponents of Spiral Dynamics sometimes disagree about the specific meanings and implications of the theory.
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