Whitman expressed in vivid language many of the most significant concepts developed during the hundred-plus years of psychological inquiry that have succeeded him. Rejecting mind—body dualism, Whitman advocated a holistic perspective consistent with contemporary physics. He also pointed out the interdependence among individual humans that informs sociobiology, family systems theory, and transpersonal psychology. Whitman’s expansive sense of his own identity is of particular relevance to our culture preoccupied with self-esteem. The essential elements of constructivist epistemology, sexual egalitarianism, multiculturalism, and postmodernism are also evident in Whitman’s work. His comments about his relationship with the reader have relevance for questions about the relationship between therapists and clients.
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