The occupational brain: A theory of human nature

This paper, which was presented at the18th Federal and inaugral Pacific Rim Conference in Hobart, Tasmania July 1995, proposes a theory of human nature based on the idea that humans are occupational beings and that indeed the human brain can be described as an occupational brain. Based on the idea that the brain is primarily concerned with healthy survival, it argues that there is a three way link between survival, health and occupation, in that occupation provides the mechanism for people to fulfil basic human needs essential for survival, to adapt to environmental changes, and to develop and exercise genetic capacities according to social and cultural values in order to maintain health.