Critiques of the STA model applied to human ability

Developmental
The human body develops from conception to old age. In particular early experiences seem to be very important to later adult ability. STA at present does not clearly account for this.

Human Potential Movement & US Gurus
The Human Potential Movement in the USA in the 1970s gave rise to a raft of Californian new age gurus who became influential in the fields of US military and business. Perhaps the most famous centre was the Esalen Institute. An example of a guru is Jim Shannon.

The most infamous results were on the interrogation techniques used in Guantanamo Bay which often use repeat does of western pop music. These centres that have put themselves beyond the law tend to see themselves as laboratories which can carry out innovative experiments on human responses and behaviour.

Sense Think Act has to acknowledge similar roots of influence from the 1970s counter culture. Could the information here be used for the same purposes? Well STA is structured to be more democratic and is anti guru. And any information can be used for good or evil. Still, it is important that the Human Potential Movement and its effects are better understood.

These thoughts after listening to Jon Ronson interviewed on Resonance radio 104.4 fm. London 14th October 2005

Book by Ronson? 'Ruby Ridge'

add links to ronson, esalen, Shannon, HPM

Reflection, Rage, Rebellion
Found scribbled on a Southbank programme

The 3Rs

- reflection

- rage

- rebellion

In relation to issues of global urgency this is probably a good shortcut. Reflection encompases sense and think. Rage is a necessary emotional condition faced with global realities. Rebellion is driven by muscle activity in a social context and ongoing reflection.

Aha STA does not have a category of exercises for things like social action, co-ordination of action, social communication, play, organisation. (social is embedded in some categories like rationality). With its emphasis on individual action STA could be seen as liberal rather than communitarian.

STA was not intended to be anti communitarian. It is just that individual action sensing, thinking and acting is the starting point.