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“Cochran's basic premise is that people should enhance the vitality of their stances or positions through the behaviors they enact. Various philosophical, sociological, and psychological perspectives are considered but the author adopts a primarily humanistic orientation and is critical of the behavioristic viewpoint. Cochran's purpose is not to provide an overview of psychological theories of personality, but rather to offer a certain specific conceptualization of personhood. ... Cochran does a good job of defining terms as they are introduced, and the theme of the book is well developed. Character studies of historical and literary figures are used to clarify the relevant psychological concepts. Altogether, this volume is a worthwhile attempt to present a particular viewpoint on human nature. Recommended for upper-level undergraduates and above.”– Choice