The Difference Between 1st Tier/Order and 2nd Tier/Order of Development
Evolve or Suffer
Don Beck, co-developer of Spiral Dynamics, and Ken Wilber, a prominent integral theorist, offer distinct perspectives on discerning between first-tier and second-tier stages of development within their respective frameworks.
In Spiral Dynamics:
First Tier: Spiral Dynamics describes a hierarchical model of human development with multiple stages arranged in tiers. The first tier comprises six main stages (beige, purple, red, blue, orange, green), each characterized by distinct value systems, worldviews, and modes of thinking. These stages are termed "first tier" because they primarily focus on individual or group survival, advancement, and fulfillment of needs within their specific cultural contexts.
Second Tier: The transition to second-tier thinking marks a significant evolution in consciousness. Second-tier thinking transcends the limitations of the first tier and embraces a more holistic and integrated perspective. Individuals at second-tier stages (yellow and turquoise in Spiral Dynamics) exhibit a greater capacity for complexity, systemic thinking, and inclusivity. They are capable of understanding and appreciating the value of multiple perspectives, navigating uncertainty and ambiguity, and fostering cooperation across diverse groups and ideologies.
In Integral Theory (as articulated by Ken Wilber):
First Tier: Wilber's Integral Theory also acknowledges the existence of multiple developmental stages but does not specifically use the term "first tier." However, the stages described in Spiral Dynamics (beige through green) align with Wilber's conception of stages characterized by egocentric (prepersonal) and ethnocentric (personal) perspectives. These stages are predominantly concerned with fulfilling individual or group needs, maintaining identity, and seeking security and belonging within a particular worldview.
Second Tier: In Integral Theory, second-tier stages represent a higher level of development beyond egocentric and ethnocentric perspectives. These stages are associated with a more comprehensive and inclusive worldview that transcends the limitations of individual or group identities. Second-tier thinking (Integral stages) embraces a greater awareness of interconnectedness, interdependence, and the integral nature of reality. Individuals at this level exhibit greater cognitive flexibility, empathy, and capacity for integrating diverse perspectives into a coherent framework.
While both Spiral Dynamics and Integral Theory offer valuable insights into human development, they differ in their terminology and emphasis. Don Beck's Spiral Dynamics focuses explicitly on cultural and value systems, while Ken Wilber's Integral Theory provides a broader framework that integrates multiple dimensions of human experience, including cognitive, emotional, and spiritual development.
Robert Kegan, a developmental psychologist, offers his own perspective on discerning between different stages of development, particularly through his theory of adult development, which he articulated in his book "The Evolving Self" and later refined in "In Over Our Heads" and "Immunity to Change." Kegan's approach is distinct from both Spiral Dynamics and Integral Theory but shares some similarities.
In Kegan's model:
Orders of Consciousness: Kegan describes development in terms of "orders of consciousness" rather than tiers or stages. He outlines five orders of consciousness: the Impulsive, Imperial, Interpersonal, Institutional, and Interindividual orders.
First-Order Consciousness: Kegan's first-order consciousness roughly corresponds to what other theorists might categorize as pre-conventional or early conventional stages. Individuals at this level are primarily focused on their immediate needs and desires, with limited capacity for perspective-taking or self-reflection. They may be driven by impulses and desires without much consideration for the consequences or impact on others.
Second-Order Consciousness: Kegan's second-order consciousness encompasses a range of stages beyond the first order. This includes what might be considered conventional and post-conventional stages in other models. At this level, individuals begin to develop a more complex sense of self and identity. They can take the perspectives of others into account and understand the social and cultural contexts that shape their experiences and interactions. They also start to question and challenge societal norms and expectations, seeking greater autonomy and authenticity in their lives.
Kegan's model emphasizes the development of increasingly complex forms of meaning-making and self-awareness throughout adulthood. He explores how individuals navigate the tensions between their existing ways of knowing and the demands of their changing environments, which ultimately lead to transformative growth and development.
Overall, while Kegan's approach shares similarities with other developmental theories, particularly in its focus on advancing through qualitatively distinct stages, his emphasis on the evolving nature of adult development and the construction of meaning within interpersonal and societal contexts sets his work apart.
We Cannot Create A New Human or A New Humanity By Thinking The Same Way
Don Beck, Ken Wilber, and Robert Kegan would likely orient 1st tier/order thinking, also known as vMEMEs (value memes) or worldviews, within the context of their respective developmental frameworks and highlight its contribution to existential threats stemming from rivalrous conflict and win/lose metrics.
Don Beck (Spiral Dynamics): Don Beck, co-developer of Spiral Dynamics, would frame 1st tier thinking in terms of the dominant value systems and worldviews associated with each stage. These stages, ranging from survival-focused (beige) to ethnocentric (blue) and egocentric (red), are characterized by a limited perspective that prioritizes self-interest, group identity, and power dynamics based on competition and domination. Beck would emphasize how these 1st tier worldviews perpetuate rivalrous conflicts and win/lose metrics, leading to social fragmentation, violence, and systemic dysfunction. Beck's approach highlights the importance of advancing to higher-tier thinking, such as 2nd tier (yellow and beyond), which emphasizes cooperation, inclusivity, and systems thinking, as a means to address existential threats and promote sustainable human development.
Ken Wilber (Integral Theory): Ken Wilber's Integral Theory provides a comprehensive framework for understanding human development and consciousness evolution. Wilber would situate 1st tier thinking within the broader context of his integral model, which includes multiple dimensions of reality (e.g., individual, collective, interior, exterior). He would highlight how 1st tier worldviews contribute to existential threats by perpetuating divisive ideologies, tribalism, and zero-sum thinking. Wilber's approach emphasizes the importance of transcending and including 1st tier perspectives, recognizing their value while also moving beyond their limitations. He would advocate for the cultivation of higher-order thinking capacities, such as integral consciousness, which integrates diverse perspectives and seeks win/win solutions to complex problems.
Robert Kegan: Robert Kegan's theory of adult development focuses on the evolution of meaning-making and self-awareness across different stages of life. Kegan would analyze 1st tier thinking in terms of its contribution to interpersonal conflicts, social polarization, and existential threats arising from narrow-mindedness and groupthink. He would emphasize how individuals operating from 1st tier perspectives may struggle to understand or empathize with alternative viewpoints, leading to entrenched divisions and destructive behaviors. Kegan's approach underscores the importance of promoting higher-order cognitive and moral development, which enables individuals to navigate complexity, embrace diversity, and engage in constructive dialogue across differences.
In summary, Don Beck, Ken Wilber, and Robert Kegan would all recognize the dangers posed by 1st tier thinking when it comes to perpetuating rivalrous conflict and win/lose metrics. They would advocate for the cultivation of higher-order perspectives that transcend narrow self-interest and promote cooperation, empathy, and sustainable solutions to existential threats facing humanity
Works Cited
Edward, Don, and Christopher C. Cowan. Spiral Dynamics. John Wiley & Sons, 2014.
Donate
If this post was supportive and you want to donate, you can to so through the links below:
PayPal Donate (@valuenathan)
Venmo Donate (@Unique_Self_Value)
CashApp Donate ($uniqueselfmoney)
Donate To Me Via Blockchain
Litecoin MKrPai4qLJDuYSJSjxADiKxxiJvY1BXye7
Bitcoin Cash bitcoincash:qzx2qnrh4uvwap6ys9w77nw3eew94hsccy0svrfhyu
Ethereum 0x983480369920eE15520518376cb52b156285dC0a
Bitcoin 3HkFJoxdNr4daMSp1oWepwA2SuJ6Uz3SKm
Dogecoin DAs9EgsQiUSuPazH8Hcpkqu65zg8ypDZzu