ABSTRACT
One of the most pervasive myths of modern social theory is the view that contemporary capitalism is characterized by extreme individualism. In traditional therapy the criteria of "mental health" reflect current standards of "normal" functioning, personal identity, and interpersonal relationships. These are, of course, aspects of the present social system, which is de facto in effect, and which determines the definitions that become the standards of therapeutic work. Social values have a positive and a negative aspect. The positive provision lies in the assessment of valued experience or life that the good makes possible or embodies. Such is the case with parks, education, and health. The negative and more legal aspect of this consideration is the provision that no individual can be excluded from participation in the institutions of the social good: ideally, no one can be denied access to parks, education, or health.
