Holistic Aging

Robert Fettgather has taught at San Jose State University, National University and Mission College in Santa Clara.  He has addressed State and National Conferences on a variety of topics. Robert Fettgather has served as Special Consultant in psychometrics to the Departments of Education and Developmental Disabilities for the State of California. He holds a specialist credential in learning handicapped and community college credentials in both learning and developmental disabilities. Interested in human growth development, Robert Fettgather has studied optimal health practices for people of all ages.

A holistic approach to aging recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and social well-being. Integrative health practices, including complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care, can complement conventional medical treatments and enhance overall health. Holistic approaches also encompass the importance of spirituality and a positive mindset in coping with life's challenges.

Preventive care is a fundamental aspect of optimal health for seniors. Regular screenings for common age-related conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers, can aid in early detection and timely intervention. Vaccinations, bone density assessments, and eye and dental check-ups are essential components of preventive care that contribute to overall well-being.

Achieving optimal health for seniors requires a comprehensive and holistic approach that addresses physical, mental, and social aspects of well-being. By prioritizing regular exercise, maintaining cognitive health, fostering social connections, embracing preventive care, and adopting holistic approaches to aging, seniors can enhance their overall quality of life. As society continues to age, promoting optimal health for seniors becomes an imperative goal, ensuring that aging is a journey marked by vitality, purpose, and fulfillment.

Unveiling A Fallacy

Drawing on an extensive background in psychology and religion, Robert Fettgather was co-founder and a discussion leader with Tashi Lhunpo Sangha. Robert Fettgather’s Buddhist organization stands as a Palo Alto, California “community of friends” who practice meditation and seek Dharma together. 

The Just World Fallacy (JWF) stands as a cognitive bias challenging the widely held belief that the world operates in a fundamentally fair and just manner. Unlike the Just World Hypothesis, which posits that individuals generally get what they deserve, the fallacy recognizes the limitations of this belief system and explores the cognitive distortions that underlie perceptions of justice. It seems that the world is not such a fair place.

The Just World Fallacy emerges from the human tendency to cling to the notion that life events, both positive and negative, are inherently just and deserved. However, the fallacy goes beyond the hypothesis by acknowledging the inherent flaws in assuming a direct link between actions and consequences. It recognizes that life's complexities often lead to outcomes that defy simplistic notions of justice.

At the heart of the Just World Fallacy are cognitive distortions and attribution errors. Individuals, in an attempt to make sense of the world, may erroneously attribute events to the perceived moral character of those involved. The fallacy highlights the tendency to overlook systemic factors, random chance, or external influences that significantly contribute to life outcomes. Systems, externalities and chance should not be omitted from an honest assessment of the issue.

The Just World Fallacy has profound implications for social dynamics and interactions. It can foster a sense of complacency and indifference toward the struggles of others, particularly those facing adversity. This fallacy may lead individuals to blame victims for their misfortunes, overlooking the broader social, economic, or structural factors that contribute to inequality and injustice.

Recognizing the Just World Fallacy prompts a reevaluation of societal norms and structures. It challenges the status quo by questioning the fairness of existing systems and institutions. This critical perspective encourages a more nuanced understanding of individual and collective responsibility in shaping a just and equitable society.

The fallacy's acknowledgment underscores the importance of empathy in fostering a more compassionate and understanding society. Embracing empathy requires a shift away from judgmental attitudes toward those facing challenges, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of life's difficulties, and appreciating the role of empathy in driving positive social change. Mitigating the impact of the Just World Fallacy involves fostering a more nuanced worldview that considers the intricate interplay of factors influencing life outcomes. Encouraging critical thinking and an awareness of cognitive biases can help individuals navigate the complexities of justice and fairness.

The Just World Fallacy invites reflection on the limitations of simplistic notions of justice, urging individuals to transcend cognitive biases that may perpetuate inequalities and hinder social progress. By acknowledging the fallacy, we open the door to a more empathetic, compassionate, and just society—one that recognizes the inherent complexities of the human experience and strives for fairness in the face of adversity.