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I believe psychology has done very well in working out how…

“I believe psychology has done very well in working out how to understand and treat disease. But I think that is literally half-baked. If all you do is work to fix problems, to alleviate suffering, then by definition you are working to get people to zero, to neutral.” quote by Martin Seligman
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“I believe psychology has done very well in working out how to understand and treat disease. But I think that is literally half-baked. If all you do is work to fix problems, to alleviate suffering, then by definition you are working to get people to zero, to neutral.”

Martin Seligman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author critiques psychology for focusing only on fixing problems, arguing it should also promote thriving beyond mere alleviation of suffering.

In simple terms: Psychology should aim beyond fixing.

Key Takeaway

Promote flourishing.

Themes

psychology well‑being growth

Mood

analytical hopeful

Type

theoretical practical

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • public health policy
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

humanistic positive psychology holistic health

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we measure flourishing?
  • What interventions foster growth?
A Different Perspective

Balancing treatment and promotion is complex.

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