Abstract

This dissertation explores the various aspects, structures and dynamics of the experience of competing according to the methodology formulated by Adrian van Kaam and the Institute of Formative Spirituality. It attempts to answer questions such as: Why do we compete? Is competition inevitable? Is the price of competition worth what it produces? Can competition be healthy? It also endeavors to describe the ingredients of healthy and unhealthy competition, looking to see what makes competition beneficial or harmful. Consideration of the way in which one might move from competing unhealthily to a more healthy form of competition, is also a part of this research project. The dynamic of competition is researched from a universal perspective, a Zen Buddhist viewpoint, a Christian standpoint and, finally, is applied to the experience of competition in an Augustinian experience of religious life in the Roman Catholic tradition