I-It Versus I-Thou Science and Society: Introduction to Special Feature on Maslow’s (1969) “Toward a Humanistic Biology”

Abstract

This special feature centers around Journal of Humanistic Psychology co-founder Abraham Maslow’s 1969 article, “Toward a Humanistic Biology.” My aims for this special feature are to showcase perspectives on and responses to Maslow’s article from the vantage point of the early 2020s by multiple generations and iterations of humanistic psychologists. This serves not only to challenge misconceptions of Maslow—and humanistic psychology in general—as a mere historical relic but also to continue updating and contextualizing our foundational canon to make it relevant to new and future generations while also preserving, and without losing sight of, its core and the wisdom of our elders. In this introduction, following a review of advancements in psychology since Maslow’s day (including some called for in his 1969 article), I summarize key points and themes from the article and discuss their relevance in today’s society. Then, I identify the limitations in and conundrums posed by some of Maslow’s statements. Finally, I provide a narrative of the 12 articles that follow in this special feature.