Values, Hedonism, Autonomy?

Abstract

Using Erik Erikson and James Marcia's scientific work on the identity crisis of adolescence and a children's story by Madeleine L'Engle, the process of maturation is described. The desirability of youthful hedonism and the need to relinquish it in a way that promotes stability of the life plan and joy and satisfaction in living are elaborated. Autonomous choosing of values and life plans, as opposed to submission to others' values, is shown to be the deciding factor in whether there is full measure of both stability and satisfaction.