Power vs. Force: The Hidden Determinants of Human Behavior

David R Hawkins

Awaited for twenty years, the publication of Power vs. Force, by David R. Hawkins, M.D., finally reveals to the general public secret information heretofore only shared by the author with certain nobelists and world leaders. Analyzing the basic nature of human thought and consciousness itself, the author finally makes available to everyone the key to penetrating the last barrier to the advancement of civilization and science; he details how anyone may resolve for himself the most crucial of all human dilemmas—how to instantly determine the truth or falsehood of any statement or supposed fact.

This author's boyhood spiritual experience of the "Infinite Presence" has directed his life work as a healing psychiatrist—a healing that transcends his patients' physical world. Dr. Hawkins's basic thesis focuses on the "Ultimate Presence"—the source from which individuals can reach their highest potential. He uses theoretical concepts from particle physics, nonlinear dynamics, and chaos theory to support his study of human behavior.

The book is divided into 3 parts:

Part 1 describes the process of moving toward one's ultimate potential. Dr. Hawkins then discusses his theory by explaining the progression from negative energy fields or attractors to positive attractors, which ultimately lead to pure consciousness. Based on 20 years of research, he has developed an intriguing map of consciousness, which in essence charts one's spiritual growth. The map outlines a listing of attitudes and emotions with corresponding calibrated numerical values. Feelings such as blame, anxiety, and hate fall into negative energy attractor fields; affirmation, trust, and optimism are examples of positive attractors that are life-enhancing and ultimately lead to pure consciousness. By applying principles from kinesiology and acupuncture, the author explains the association between positive attractor fields and one's health, well-being and creativity.

Part 2 presents an extensive listing of adjectives that connote power vs. force patterns of human attitudes. It provides a basis for examining the quality of human interactions and relationships in various life endeavors, e.g., the marketplace, sports, the arts, health, and wellness.

Part 3 focuses on the evolution and current state of man's consciousness, which Hawkins suggests is at the threshold of power after centuries of force. He posits that an individual's power and level of consciousness can be enhanced through greater integrity, understanding, and compassion.

Readers will find themselves challenging methodology or various suppositions and being intrigued by others as the author relates the world of spirituality to the hidden dimensions of human behavior.

Review by Elizabeth Hughes
R.N., Ph.D., Former Dean of Georgetown University's School of Nursing
She is a consultant in health education in the Baltimore/Washington DC area.