Human Goal-Seeking Behaviour: A Psychological Comparison of the Purushartha Framework and Western Motivational Concepts

Abstract

The Purusharthic paradigm promotes a balanced and integrated pursuit of numerous life goals, in contrast to western psychological models that explain motivation through hierarchical or need-based frameworks, such as Maslow's hierarchy of needs, self-determination theory, and drive-reduction theory.The basic aim of this paper is to investigate the psychological meaning of Purusharth and applicability to modern behavioral science. Each Purushartha is viewed through contemporary theoretical frameworks: Moksha in connection with mindfulness, self-actualization, and transcendence; Kama in connection with affective neuroscience and attachment theory; Artha in connection with achievement motivation and reward systems; and Dharma in connection with moral development and prosocial behavior. The paper synthesizes an integrated cross-cultural model of motivation by conducting textual analysis of traditional Indian philosophical sources and Western motivational ideas using a theoretical and comparative methodology and literature reviews. The Purusharthas provide a multifaceted explanation of human motivation that goes beyond the individualistic and hierarchical slants of Western philosophies.The results of different texts and literature review highlight that how the Purusharthas can be used as a culturally grounded paradigm in applied psychology as well as research to better understand human motivation. Significant theoretical and practical ramifications result from its incorporation into contemporary psychology, including culturally sensitive methods of psychological testing and treatment in multicultural and South Asian settings. In the end, reinterpreting the Purusharthas in light of modern behavioral research advances the decolonization of psychological theory and practice by fostering a more inclusive and internationally applicable understanding of human motivation.