Teleology

The concept that behind every change there is a directional force, design or purpose.

It has been said (A K Sinha) that it is the telic nature of human personality which produces its internal order and gives rise to the ability to make free and rational decisions, to plan and to seek adventure. Purposive behaviour is closely related to creativity. As the individual matures it is said that interest shifts from biological creativity (procreation) to utilitarian, aesthetic and intellectual creativity and appreciation, the requisite subjective or psychic order for the latter arising through intuitive comprehension and creative imagination. Such development arises by reflection in solitude, and is fostered by: individual freedom and opportunity; creative education; value-consciousness which encourages ethical, juridical and cultural conscience and works against egoism.

In these terms, society is seen as a system of telic persons organized to realize the same ends, interpersonal harmony being achieved through critical appraisal, formal approval or emotional involvement, these all being expressions of mutual appreciation. Such a society is culturally dynamic and progressive. In turn, a dynamic and well integrated sociocultural system is a factor in stable world order, since such stability is only possible where each component society is dynamic but with minimal disorder. Mutual tolerance and appreciation between societies is therefore an extension of such tolerance and appreciation among telic persons and lasting peace may be achieved through telic unity and creative advance.