Actual Capabilities as Signs of Transcultural Differences

Abstract

The list of actual capabilities in their current form developed step by step over a span of ten years. At first, I had been struck by the psychotherapeutic importance of politeness and honesty. After I had become sensitive to these two psychosocial norms, I was able to see again and again in my own behavior, in the things I experienced in my family, and in my dealings with other people and patients norms that were very important psychosocially. Then there were areas that, as virtues, were the goal of upbringing and developmental dimensions on the one hand, but on the other hand were often found in connection with disorders, aggravations, complaints, problems, and illnesses.

Every new answer raises a new question.

—Oriental wisdom