In my experience as a psychologist all humans have an innate need to self –sooth.  The natural balance of nature, called homeostasis, appears to be constantly under attack.  We feel off balanced with chronic needs to be fulfilled.  We seek placation.   The concept frightens most because it instills a sense of dependence and neediness on us that is contrary to the false notion of independence.  Nevertheless, we are in need and seek to satisfy.

The addict on the street hyperbolizes this idea.  The depended body seeks to be satisfied from every pore.  The typical westerner scoffs at them with self-adulation.  However, we all suffer from the same thing – at different extremes.  Something occupies our time and desires that we would have trouble to live without.  I am not talking about love or relationships; this is of a different need altogether.  Love and relationships fall in the realm of happiness. What I am referring describes some activity, possession, or entertainment that pacifies a person for a short period of time without bringing happiness.

It appears that most westerners use television or movies for this placation.  Either in reality shows, sports programs or crime drama.  Some use the Internet in chatting or gaming.  Shopping remains a keystone in the American culture as we are brainwashed into product consumption by the relentless barrage of commercials.  Sex and alcoholism remains a staple in the placation phenomena.  Smoking and caffeine are obvious.  There appears to be something for everyone that remains crucial to their placidity.

There is now a growing number of those aesthesis who seek to deny any need of placation with Tartuffian vigor.  They deny good foods, drink, and activities and replace them with items that they feel are ‘better for them.’  Often

This dependency need allows us to fall prey to many things in our western culture.  However, what is the purpose of this?  How did it come about?  Can we change it?  The desire to be in want of nothing appears to be a “holy” path that many have attempted and few have completed, but I would argue that that is more of the esthetics than reality.  In fact, rejecting all things and being the minimalist can also be an act of placation.

The great apostle stated, “Enjoy everything, but be mastered by none” (my version).   In other words,  we should not kid ourselves into thinking that we do not have obsessive things in our life that we use to placate.  However, be mindful so that they do not overwhelm.  Enjoy the reality shows and shopping, etc,.  Use this to achieve temporary homeostasis, but do not become off balanced by overindulging in anyone thing.