Vision and Values

Abstract

Abstract As the formative figure in the emergence and development of Environment-Aging Studies, M. Powell Lawton influenced virtually every facet of this realm of research. Among his many contributions, Lawton helped shape the philosophical foundations which underlie the field and give direction to goals, theories, methods, and strategies of research. These philosophical foundations of Environment-Behavior Studies are analyzed from five complementary perspec-tives-axiological, ontological, epistemological, methodological, and praxeological-with particular attention paid to Lawton's position on each. Though unwavering in his position with regard to values, Lawton explored a variety of philosophical positions and continued to work to ward a meaningful synthesis of what are often seen as conflicting world-views. Key Words: Environment-behaviorparadigms"good life" modelcompetence-press model