Conation

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/kəʊˈneɪʃən/

Definitions

• Conation refers to the mental process related to will or intention, particularly in the context of goal-directed behavior or motivation.
• Conation is often used in psychology to describe a person's desire, drive, or impulse to act or achieve something.
• Conation can also refer to the volitional aspects of the mind that drive actions, distinct from cognition or emotion.

Usage Examples

• "His strong sense of conation pushed him to pursue his goals relentlessly."
• "Conation, alongside cognition and emotion, is a key element in understanding human behavior."
• "The psychologist studied how conation influences decision-making and actions."

Etymology

The word 'conation' derives from the Latin word 'conatio', meaning 'a striving' or 'a motion'. It is related to 'conari', meaning 'to try' or 'to attempt'. The term was first introduced in English in the 17th century and has been used primarily in philosophical and psychological contexts to describe the motivational or volitional aspects of behavior.

Synonyms

• Will
• Drive
• Volition
• Determination
• Intent

Antonyms

• Inaction
• Indifference
• Apathy
• Disinterest
• Passivity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, conation is pronounced with a slightly harder "k" sound: /kəʊˈneɪʃən/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is generally the same, but with a subtle emphasis on the second syllable: /kəʊˈneɪʃən/.

Historical Usage

The term 'conation' has been used in philosophical and psychological contexts since the 17th century. It was introduced by philosophers such as René Descartes and John Locke, who discussed the relationship between will, action, and intention. Over time, the term has been further developed by modern psychologists to study motivation, drive, and the active components of human behavior.

Cultural Nuances

In Western psychology, conation is often discussed in relation to human motivation and personal achievement. In some cultures, the concept of willpower and desire as the driving force behind actions is deeply ingrained. In contrast, other cultures might focus more on communal goals or external influences that guide individual behavior, affecting how conation is understood and valued.

More Information

Conation, as a psychological concept, plays an important role in motivational theory and the study of human behavior. It is distinct from emotion and cognition, focusing specifically on a person's intentional efforts to achieve goals. Studies have shown that conation can significantly influence success in both personal and professional realms. As an aspect of volition, it is essential for overcoming obstacles and initiating purposeful actions.