THE COURAGE-BASED MOTIVATION THEORY: COURAGE AS THE EXISTENTIAL CORE OF HUMAN MOTIVATION
Abstract
Although numerous theories have been proposed concerning motivation and human needs, motivation-related problems remain highly prevalent in everyday life. This situation indicates the insufficiency of existing motivation theories and highlights the fact that courage—the essential core of motivation—has not been adequately emphasized. The present study, through the development of the Courage-Based Motivation Theory, addresses this deficiency by placing courage at the very foundation of motivation and the process of need satisfaction. Based on the most well-known theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the study emphasizes that courage is the fundamental element in fulfilling needs at every level. Drawing upon Aristotle’s Doctrine of the Golden Mean, it suggests that the proper use of courage lies between the extremes of cowardice and recklessness in the satisfaction of needs. Furthermore, it offers a more detailed examination of Maslow’s highest level of need—self-actualization, which is particularly relevant to modern individuals. It is anticipated that the newly proposed Courage-Based Motivation Theory will guide future research in the field of motivation and help scholars better understand that courage lies at the core of human motivation, thereby preventing unnecessary theoretical and practical efforts.
Keywords
Courage, Courage-Based Motivation Theory, Maslow, Self-Actualization
Supporting Institution
Yok
Ethical Statement
Not necessary
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