On Human Excellence: Its Nature...Its Invitation...Its Pursuit...Its Acquisition...Its Challenges...Its Rewards...Its Promise...

Everyone uses the word, usually somewhat in awe, certainly with respect; Alfred Nobel by means of his will left an immense estate in perpetuity awarding annually a small fortune to those who during the previous year had accomplished something great for the benefit of mankind which according to the spirit of his will embodied it; a few brave souls seemingly try to actually achieve it; leaders frequently use the word inspirationally to try to motivate; it conjures up visions of the ideal; history abounds with examples of wars and revolutions fought over difference of opinion over it; President Carter before his presidency wrote a book about certain aspects of it; the idea of it elevates, enthuses, and excites; when comparing things on some basis one stands out above the others for manifesting some high quality that warrants being labeled it; it seems to mean definitely a cut above the rest; it comes from some kind of measurement; some set of criteria; it certainly means something to everybody; but ... try asking someone to define the noun form of the word, not the adjective form, or the adverb, but the noun; suddenly there will be seen puzzled then blank expressions; mouths move, but nothing comes out.

As a clinical psychologist, S Rutherford McDill Jr. has spent his professional life at the intersection of human behavior and ethics. In addition to his clinical practice both inside and outside of correctional settings, he has taught all aspects of psychology and professional ethics in various Southern California colleges and universities at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. He is married with three grown children and five grandchildren.