In 1848, German experimental psychologist Gustav Theodor Fechner formalized the pain-pleasure principle... the idea that all human action is primarily determined by the degree of pleasure or displeasure that is to be expected or gained.
Is human action truly guided by the same “over simplified” principle as that which governs the animal kingdom? I for one would like to think otherwise. I do know that many of my actions are in fact influenced by avoiding pain, confrontation, and all things that are considered bad; but I also know that many other decisions I make are governed by something greater than pain or pleasure. So, the pain-pleasure principle can not be an “end all be all” principle, can it?
As far as the on goings of this office I see the reality of the pain–pleasure principle on a continuous basis. For this reason, I would like to expose it, draw your attention to it, and give you the opportunity to make better decisions with regard to your actions. 3 scenarios where the pain-pleasure principle fails miserably:
- The person who goes to the Chiropractor because they are in pain, and as soon as the pain goes away so does their motivation to correct the cause of their pain or problem.
- The person (millions of people in fact) who have pain and still neglect to do something about it other than medicate their painful existence in effort to find pleasure again at any cost.
- The person who is not in pain, but is unaware of what it takes to make sure that they do not develop a painful condition. (i.e. they brush their teeth but do nothing for their spine)
Do you know anybody who fits into any of these categories?
Do you see my point? Please, please, please do not let the pain–pleasure principle govern your decision making skills when it comes to taking care of your body, your health, your friends and children, etc. Right now we are seeing a health care crisis because of this very concept. Too many people make continuously bad decisions that are governed by the pain-pleasure principle with regard to diet, exercise, ergonomics, lifestyle choices, healthcare professional utilization, etc.
I have a solution to offer in substitute of the pain-pleasure principle. I call it the higher purpose principle. Here is how it works for me:
Regardless of pain or pleasure I exercise regularly, eat well, stay well adjusted, and practice stress management in a way that serves a higher purpose. I do it because God is depending on me to serve you at maximum capacity. I do it because in the future my wife, children and grandchildren will depend on me to be healthy, strong and wise. I do it because there is more at stake than pain, pleasure, or myself.
With regard to traction, head exercises, your diet, your level of exercise activity, your postural awareness, your working knowledge of health and disease, etc… was Gustav Theodor Fechner right about you? Or, are you capable of transcending the pain-pleasure principle, and thus proving him wrong as well?
Speak up and educate others,
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