A Unified Field Theory of Motivation

Based on the work of Robert S. Hartman

Abstract

The issue of what causes people to become motivated, engaged, and involved—to do what they do with the intensity that they sometimes express—has been a classic question that has been raised across the ages by human beings in one way or another. Of course, many variables contribute to motivation, and sorting these variables out in an orderly manner has been difficult. The task of this discussion is to find some unity around the work of Robert S. Hartman for the overall conversation involving motivation. In the process of finding focus and direction in Hartman’s thought, the discussion will also look at both modern and classical contributions to motivational theory that parallel and advance Hartman’s thought. In addition to several modern expressions that derive from discussions in contemporary organizational settings, the work of David Brooks and Clark Hull will be featured. The goal of the discussion is to create the image of a “unified field” of integrative factors that together drive human behavior and performance.