Application of Adler's Theoris on Social Figure

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Abstract Adlerian framework of superiority striving and style of life can be applied and examined through the life of Daisaku Ikeda, a Buddhist Philosopher, Peacemaker, Author, Poet and Educator who is the 3rd president of the Soka Gakkai lay Buddhist organization and the founding president of the Soka Gakkai International (SGI, 2013). SGI is a one of the largest Buddhist lay organizations with center around the world. SGI originated in Japan and wishes to promote a “philosophy of character development and social engagement for peace.”(SGI, 2013). Superiority Striving Adler’s theory of Superiority Striving states that individuals strive for success because as an infant we begin with “physical deficiencies that activate feels of inferiority”, which is inherent in all human beings. Infants are naturally dependent on others for their care which creates a desire to succeed(Feist, 2009). Alder’s theory can be applied to Daisaku Ikeda’s life, who was born and struggled with ill health and tuberculosis, one of the leading killer diseases at the time(SGI, 2013). The doctors did not believe that Ikeda would live past the age of 30(SGI, 2013). Daisaku suffered many years from TB and ill health, which required many years of care by his mother and family. During those years, Ikeda felt that he burdened his family and often desired to contribute to his family’s overall wellbeing (SGI, 2013). At the time the Ikeda’s lived in World War II Japan when all Japanese citizens were asked to contribute to the war efforts. Ikeda’s family owned a seaweed factory which all the family worked, however when all 4 of Ikeda’s older brothers were drafted into the war, Ikeda felt compelled to help the family(SGI, 2013). Ikeda’s family home and business was bombed twice during World War II, which devastated the family physically, spiritually and morally(SGI, 2013). Daisaku carried immense

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