Numerous authors have recently criticized the concept of self-actualization, especially as it appears in the work of Rogers and Maslow. These critiques are reviewed, and an alternative theory from a Marxist historical materialist perspective is advanced. An attempt is made to utilize the psychology of Vygotski and Leontyev in the reconstruction of a logically consistent position on human nature and self-actualization. The theory is presented as a series of nine interlocking postulates, which are then elaborated in the form of successive short outlines.
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