The Problem of the Subject of Need in the Psychology of Set

Abstract

According to the theory of set, set is the basis of any kind of mental and psychophysical processes. It is the psychophysical modification of the whole person for the purpose of activity. Since need is a psychic experience (differently from necessity which is reflected in it), the question arises regarding the set underlying this or that specific need.  But, on its part, need is a necessary and leading factor for the formation of set. This creates a sort of controversy: Need is a precondition for the formation of set for the individual’s activity; on the other hand, experiencing need (just like anything else) requires the existence of the corresponding underlying set. It is well known that need is formed on the basis of disposition. The article attempts to characterize need disposition as a form of fixated set.  Is also discusses the difficulties related to the given solution of the problem.