Saybrook University, with deep sadness, is announcing today the death of Dr. Eugene Taylor, a noted scholar and 20-year member of our executive faculty.
“We are sorry to see Eugene go,” said Mark Schulman, President of Saybrook University, “He was a scholar and a teacher respected by all with whom he came in contact. He is, truly, irreplacable.”
Taylor died on January 30 at 10:30 a.m. EST with his family in attendance. He was 66.
Taylor was a prominent historian of psychology. The author of books including Shadow Culture: Psychology and Spirituality in America; The Mystery of Personality: A History of Psychodynamic Theories; and William James on Consciousness Beyond the Margins, he was a research historian at Harvard Medical School, the curator of Gordon Allport’s papers, and an internationally renowned scholar on the work of William James. He was also the founder of the Cambridge Institute of Psychology and Religion, a board member of the Philemon Foundation, a fellow in two APA divisions, and a founding member of The New Existentialists.
He held degrees from Southern Methodist University, Harvard Divinity School (where he was the 1983 William James Lecturer), and a PhD in the History and Philosophy of Psychology from Boston University.
An early student of humanistic psychology, Taylor was present at some of the earliest transpersonal psychology conferences in the 1970s. Combined with his long-standing interest in Eastern religions, this exposure helped develop his scholarly interest in the study of consciousness itself, which he placed at the center of the psychological experience. Psychology, he emphasized, is a “person centered science,” in which the subjective experiences of everyone involved are at the center of best practice. He held that the current “neuro-revolution” in science will further affirm this: that the effort to study the neurons of the brain for the stirrings of consciousness will lead to the realization that there is no “empirical” way to study consciousness without involving radical subjectivity. To take that subjectivity into account as central to understanding rather than futilely trying to dismiss it was, he said, the essence of good science.
“There is no science anywhere that does not involve someone’s personal consciousness somewhere,” he wrote.
His work at Saybrook, where he at various times chaired the programs in Consciousness Studies and Humanistic & Transpersonal Psychology, inspired many to follow in his footsteps and put existential psychology at the center of their own work and practice.
“Eugene gave much of his life to humanistic psychology, and served in many ways as our historian,” said Louis Hoffman, the President of the Society for Humanistic Psychology (APA Division 32) and a colleague of Taylor’s on Saybrook’s executive faculty. “His passion for humanistic psychology was evident to anyone who knew him. His scholarship and, more importantly, the man, will be dearly missed by his students, colleagues, and the whole humanistic community.”
Comments
Although I did not get to meet Dr. Taylor I sense that the loss to our Saybrook community and beyond will be great. I am sad I didn’t have the opportunity to attend a lecture, or hear him speak at some conference. My condolences go out to his family and our family at Saybrook I know he will be missed.
Posted by ldaniels1 (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:22 PM
We have all lost a giant presence and a friend in humanistic psychology. How very sad. My prayers are with Eugene and his family and his students and his Saybrook colleagues.
Posted by John Adams (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:27 PM
Eugene was a true scholar and placed so much value on helping our students at Saybrook become true scholars. He had a passion for telling the story of humanistic psychology and his knowledge and presence will be greatly missed. My sympathies go out to his family and all who were close to him.
Nancy Southern, EdD
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:40 PM
Hey Eugene, say hi to William James for me. I know you guys have a lot to talk about in the great hereafter. Until we meet again.
Love,
Brent Robbins
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:00 PM
A great loss for humanistic psychology and particularly for Saybrook. Eugene was a true original. I treasured my colleagueship at Saybrook and Division of Humanistic Psychology and learned a great deal from him over the years we worked together. My thoughts are with his family, the Saybrook community and everyone he loved and who loved him.
Maureen O’Hara,
Posted by Maureen O’Hara (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:29 PM
It must be incredibly frustrating for him to know the truth now and NOT be able to tell us! Or he may just be amused that we think he is “gone” when he is very much “here.” May his memory on this earth be eternal and may we all feel the impact his soul on our profession!
Posted by mtaheny (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:39 PM
I first encountered Eugene Taylor through his written works and was deeply impressed by his scholarship and clear-eyed vision of the centrality of spirituality and consciousness to the study of psychology. He was a trailblazer in both the history of psychology and the fusing of Asian and western psychologies. I had the good fortune of meeting him in Cambridge at his study where we had a wide-ranging discussion on all topics relating to psychology’s history. Thereafter we went to the Swedenborg Church. History of psychology has lost a vital voice. Peace to you, Eugene! Thank you for your gifts!
-David Schmit
St. Catherine University
Posted by David Schmit (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:54 PM
Gene’s passing comes as a great shock to me. Although in recent years our paths have diverged, I count Gene as one of the most congenial and articulate colleagues in the history of psychology I have known, especially in my association with him through Cheiron meetings. I knew him particularly when he was at Harvard immersed as he was in his studies on William James. He seemed to have a particular gift of transporting his colleagues, including me, into James’ thoughts and insights into human consciousness through his conference papers and in more intimate conversation. Anyone was captivated by his affable and gracious manner – a true humanist professionally and personally.
Posted by Peter Behrens (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 07:08 PM
Prof.Eugene Taylor will be greatly missed. He was one of the finest that Saybrook University had. He was a great mentor to me, and chair of my dissertation committee. Eugene Taylor was passionate about teaching, and meticulous about his work.I learned a great deal from this patient,wonderful man. He had a beautiful mind and conveyed ideas with such clarity, you got the picture right away!. I’m sad that we were not able to complete the work we started. He was kind and very intuitive. Goodnight my friend may God in heaven hold you close. Rest in Peace.
My wishes to his family.
Posted by Ebie Okonkwo (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 09:46 PM
How we will miss Eugene! Unbelievable. Eugene was my first contact with Saybrook, when he came and spoke at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School while I was working clinically there. Fascinating individual. I got to have lunch with him at the time…and…also thanks to Mike Arons…I ended up at Saybrook some years later. How could anyone not be impressed with this highly learned and often passionate individual with such extensive knowledge, commitment to humanistic psychology, extraordinary expertise on William James, extensive bibliography and wish to keep pushing the boundaries of knowledge, both himself and with his students. He was sometimes controversial and determined, and a tough taskmaster with students, but he was always present, available, and willing to discuss. For Saybrook and humanistic psychology in general, his work as historian has been invaluable. May we all keep Eugene in our thoughts, and our prayers, at this difficult and important time. And may we remember him well with all the honor he deserves at Saybrook.
Posted by Dr. Ruth Richards (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:03 PM
To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
~Thomas Campbell~
Dr. Taylor will certainly live in the many hearts and minds of the students and colleagues that he worked with and within the Saybrook, Humanistic, and Existential Psychology family.
Posted by Heather McQueen (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:49 PM
I am in shock. It seems impossible. Eugene was one our best and brightest, a true individual who spoke his truth with authenticity. I feel privileged to have known him. My thoughts and love are with his family and all those who hold him close to their hearts.
Posted by David Elkins (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:53 PM
Awe…and wonder in a scholarly, brotherly mentor. I first met Dr Taylor through his writings. I share the gift he bestowed as my professor with hunbdreds of other fortunate scholar practitioners.
He brought William James to the surface in my stream of consciousness and the three streams of psychological history into a confluence & eddies through hours of inspiring and supportive telephone calls—coast to coast. What a teacher!!!!
In the last 10 months, my husband, mother,father, best friend and now the most amazing scholarly presence have become imprinted on my soul, in their passing. If not for the way he evoked the best in me, I would be crushed. Rather I will be lifted even higher!
Dr Eugene Taylor, I will keep writing—and making(!)- history in the 4th Stream.
Until we meet again,
JoAnne MacTaggart
Posted by JoAnne MacTaggart, MA PsyD Candidate (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 11:01 PM
Eugene, I am so sad, but I will always be grateful for the time you spent with me. You were such an inspirational storyteller, and above all else you were a teacher who truly loved his students.
James Regan
Posted by jregan (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 11:22 PM
I share with Eugene a love of history and theory and the confluence of psychology, philosophy, personality and the healing traditions. It was an honor to meet Eugene, to learn from him and for him to lend his astute mind to my own work and aspirations. I can see his deep and kind eyes looking with a little twinkle that would often form subtly (though obvious) across his face as he spoke and told stories. A most engaging soul, who was the quintessential professor, with a capital P, and the immortal scholar. Like many, his scholarly writings were my initial introduction. I never expected that my relatively recent opportunity to know Eugene as a student at Saybrook would be cut so short. It is said that we live on in the memories of those dear and in one’s indelible contributions.. No shortage there in the case of Dr. Eugene Taylor. May our praises sing to the heavens!
With Blessings
-Larry Graber
Posted by lgraber1 (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 12:22 AM
Dr. Eugene Taylor, a man of profound brilliance, was very generous with his time. As Chair of my dissertation committee he was demanding, but also wise and encouraging. His research resulted in many books and his inspiration led and will lead to countless further contributions to the field of psychology. I will miss him greatly as one of the handful of truly great mentors in my life. Forever when I think of Saybrook I will think of Dr. Taylor. May he rest in peace. May his family know that he touched many souls with his graceful style, albeit delivered every now and then with a metaphorical sledge-hammer.
Posted by Eric Kreuter (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 05:00 AM
What a lovely man, his writings “There is no science anywhere that does not involve someone’s personal consciousness somewhere,” how insightful, his heart was in the right place.
Posted by tlc (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 06:47 AM
Oh, dear…My mentor, my dissertation chair, a challenger to do things better, an inspirational thinker and person whose confidence in me led me to tackle some seriously difficult material for my PhD …
This has me in shock and I am deeply, deeply saddened. Prof. Taylor was a giant in the understanding of the Existential-Humanistic and Transpersonal psychology which is the hallmark of Saybrook University and a man whose broad mind was an ever-constant source of wonder. I am shattered over his loss.
Posted by Jose M. Tirado (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 07:45 AM
I can’t believe he’s gone. He taught me all I know about our history as a field and I loved his approach to teaching. He encouraged critical thinking and creativity. I respected him and looked up to him.
Posted by Mavis Ring (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 07:55 AM
I recently became a student with Professor Taylor last August in the classroom and as my mentor. Even though I did not know him long I was left with a lasting impression. He told me he was a rebel. I think of him as a rebel with a cause. I am going to continue his ideas in my career in Saybrook. I will truly miss him. My best wishes to his family and all who knew him. Blessed be.
Richard Schloe
Posted by Richard Schloe (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 08:09 AM
Whether you agreed with Eugene of disagreed with him, in discussing figures like William James or the role of consciousness he always invoked a larger and deeper world, and insisted that our work and our discourse needs to connect to that world. It is hard for me to realize that we will no longer be present (at least physically) to goad, to argue, to challenge, and to inspire.
Fred Weizmann
Posted by Fredric Weizmann (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 08:57 AM
Eugene, rest in peace, released in spirit to sun light and the expanse of the universe beyond time.
Your were quite a presence and an intellectual force at Saybrook.
My sympathies to your family who suffer more, the loss of you.
In good faith,
Alan
Posted by Alan G.Vaughan (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 09:31 AM
I regret never meeting Dr. Taylor. As I entered my first semester in PII this Spring, I very much looked forward to meeting the man in person after “meeting” him first through his writings and our few online exchanges. I could sense a kindred spirit in him. And now looking back at the inspiration and guidance he provided over the last few weeks and realizing the tremendous effort it must has been for him to reach out to his new students, I am indebted. I know he will be deeply missed. I wish the best to his family and friends.
Alex
Posted by abaker5 (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 09:58 AM
This is a HUGE loss for Saybrook. Eugene was thee best.
Posted by Eric Lindblom (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 10:03 AM
I am so sorry to hear of Eugene’s passing. He was a brilliant scholar and an inspiration to fellow faculty. May he have deep and interesting conversations with William James in the afterlife. My deepest condolences to his family.
Jacquie Lewis
Posted by jlewis (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 11:25 AM
EUGENE TAYLOR
Eugene was…how shall I say this?
…large…in his body, mind, ego, and
most of all, spirit.
Karate, lecturing, writing, drumming, eating—
he could play profoundly at all.
How did I know the moment
he slipped out of his coma
and off to that transpersonal world
he already knew well?
As I hurried though Los Angeles’ samsara
I saw his largeness distilled and compressed
into the form of a small black bird
perched alone on a high branch
silhouetted against the sky,
gazing down at me.
On the car stereo I played
George Kahumoku’s “Hawai’i Aloha”
and the bird flew slowly away,
and I miss him very much.
Tom Greening
Posted by Tom Greening (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 12:22 PM
I am deeply saddened to hear this news of Professor Eugene Taylor’s passing. He was brilliant and although his persona reflected a toughness, he was genuinely soft at heart and had a wonderful sense of humor.
I am grateful for the time I spent with him in his courses and after he agreed to be the Chairperson of my final project. It was a true honor learning from him. I would not have survived such the analysis of Jung’s Red Book without Professor Taylor’s guidance throughout.
Rest in Peace Professor Taylor. I am forever grateful and will plan to see you in my dreams for continued guidance.
Theresa Stern Valentic
Posted by Theresa Valentic (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 01:34 PM
At my very first Cheiron Society meeting, in 1980 at Bowdoin College, I attended a session that included a presentation by a scholar on William James who looked awfully like him. As I listened, I became convinced that the presenter was channeling William James’ spirit and had direct access to his thoughts on the wild side of conscious life. I was amazed and intrigued by my introduction to the history of psychology and one of its singular and colorful personalities. I’m not talking about William James here, but Eugene Taylor. Never becoming good friends, Gene and I were cordial colleagues for 33 years. I appreciated his unshakable insistence that the person was at the center of psychology, and for his many scholarly contributions. Ave atque vale!
Posted by James Capshew (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 02:45 PM
In these moments of mourning, I am drawn to reflect on the subtler aspects of Eugene’s character. Subtler, because he was much more than a charismatic apologetic. He was no saint, and would disdain being considered so. However, he was steadfast in his project, honest, direct, and tender. One had only to have seen the glimmer in his eye, or caught a glimpse of his smile — usually offering a joke about a certain fellow named Wilber — to have known this. I offer this line as a kind of reflection for my teacher: “As for me,” to quote Melville, a spirit with whom Eugene often convened, “I am tormented with an everlasting itch for things remote. I love to sail forbidden seas, and land on barbarous coasts.” With love, respect, and sadness.
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 02:49 PM
At my very first Cheiron Society meeting, in 1980 at Bowdoin College, I attended a session that included a presentation by a scholar on William James who looked awfully like him. As I listened, I became convinced that the presenter was channeling William James’ spirit and had direct access to his thoughts on the wild side of conscious life. I was amazed and intrigued by my introduction to the history of psychology and one of its singular and colorful personalities. I’m not talking about William James here, but Eugene Taylor. Never becoming good friends, Gene and I were cordial colleagues for 33 years. I appreciated his unshakable insistence that the person was at the center of psychology, and for his many scholarly contributions. Ave atque vale!
“We are sorry to see Eugene go,” said Mark Schulman, President of Saybrook University, “He was a scholar and a teacher respected by all with whom he came in contact. He is, truly, irreplacable.”
Taylor died on January 30 at 10:30 a.m. EST with his family in attendance. He was 66.
Taylor was a prominent historian of psychology. The author of books including Shadow Culture: Psychology and Spirituality in America; The Mystery of Personality: A History of Psychodynamic Theories; and William James on Consciousness Beyond the Margins, he was a research historian at Harvard Medical School, the curator of Gordon Allport’s papers, and an internationally renowned scholar on the work of William James. He was also the founder of the Cambridge Institute of Psychology and Religion, a board member of the Philemon Foundation, a fellow in two APA divisions, and a founding member of The New Existentialists.
He held degrees from Southern Methodist University, Harvard Divinity School (where he was the 1983 William James Lecturer), and a PhD in the History and Philosophy of Psychology from Boston University.
An early student of humanistic psychology, Taylor was present at some of the earliest transpersonal psychology conferences in the 1970s. Combined with his long-standing interest in Eastern religions, this exposure helped develop his scholarly interest in the study of consciousness itself, which he placed at the center of the psychological experience. Psychology, he emphasized, is a “person centered science,” in which the subjective experiences of everyone involved are at the center of best practice. He held that the current “neuro-revolution” in science will further affirm this: that the effort to study the neurons of the brain for the stirrings of consciousness will lead to the realization that there is no “empirical” way to study consciousness without involving radical subjectivity. To take that subjectivity into account as central to understanding rather than futilely trying to dismiss it was, he said, the essence of good science.
“There is no science anywhere that does not involve someone’s personal consciousness somewhere,” he wrote.
His work at Saybrook, where he at various times chaired the programs in Consciousness Studies and Humanistic & Transpersonal Psychology, inspired many to follow in his footsteps and put existential psychology at the center of their own work and practice.
“Eugene gave much of his life to humanistic psychology, and served in many ways as our historian,” said Louis Hoffman, the President of the Society for Humanistic Psychology (APA Division 32) and a colleague of Taylor’s on Saybrook’s executive faculty. “His passion for humanistic psychology was evident to anyone who knew him. His scholarship and, more importantly, the man, will be dearly missed by his students, colleagues, and the whole humanistic community.”
Comments
Although I did not get to meet Dr. Taylor I sense that the loss to our Saybrook community and beyond will be great. I am sad I didn’t have the opportunity to attend a lecture, or hear him speak at some conference. My condolences go out to his family and our family at Saybrook I know he will be missed.
Posted by ldaniels1 (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:22 PM
We have all lost a giant presence and a friend in humanistic psychology. How very sad. My prayers are with Eugene and his family and his students and his Saybrook colleagues.
Posted by John Adams (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:27 PM
Eugene was a true scholar and placed so much value on helping our students at Saybrook become true scholars. He had a passion for telling the story of humanistic psychology and his knowledge and presence will be greatly missed. My sympathies go out to his family and all who were close to him.
Nancy Southern, EdD
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:40 PM
Hey Eugene, say hi to William James for me. I know you guys have a lot to talk about in the great hereafter. Until we meet again.
Love,
Brent Robbins
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:00 PM
A great loss for humanistic psychology and particularly for Saybrook. Eugene was a true original. I treasured my colleagueship at Saybrook and Division of Humanistic Psychology and learned a great deal from him over the years we worked together. My thoughts are with his family, the Saybrook community and everyone he loved and who loved him.
Maureen O’Hara,
Posted by Maureen O’Hara (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:29 PM
It must be incredibly frustrating for him to know the truth now and NOT be able to tell us! Or he may just be amused that we think he is “gone” when he is very much “here.” May his memory on this earth be eternal and may we all feel the impact his soul on our profession!
Posted by mtaheny (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:39 PM
I first encountered Eugene Taylor through his written works and was deeply impressed by his scholarship and clear-eyed vision of the centrality of spirituality and consciousness to the study of psychology. He was a trailblazer in both the history of psychology and the fusing of Asian and western psychologies. I had the good fortune of meeting him in Cambridge at his study where we had a wide-ranging discussion on all topics relating to psychology’s history. Thereafter we went to the Swedenborg Church. History of psychology has lost a vital voice. Peace to you, Eugene! Thank you for your gifts!
-David Schmit
St. Catherine University
Posted by David Schmit (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:54 PM
Gene’s passing comes as a great shock to me. Although in recent years our paths have diverged, I count Gene as one of the most congenial and articulate colleagues in the history of psychology I have known, especially in my association with him through Cheiron meetings. I knew him particularly when he was at Harvard immersed as he was in his studies on William James. He seemed to have a particular gift of transporting his colleagues, including me, into James’ thoughts and insights into human consciousness through his conference papers and in more intimate conversation. Anyone was captivated by his affable and gracious manner – a true humanist professionally and personally.
Posted by Peter Behrens (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 07:08 PM
Prof.Eugene Taylor will be greatly missed. He was one of the finest that Saybrook University had. He was a great mentor to me, and chair of my dissertation committee. Eugene Taylor was passionate about teaching, and meticulous about his work.I learned a great deal from this patient,wonderful man. He had a beautiful mind and conveyed ideas with such clarity, you got the picture right away!. I’m sad that we were not able to complete the work we started. He was kind and very intuitive. Goodnight my friend may God in heaven hold you close. Rest in Peace.
My wishes to his family.
Posted by Ebie Okonkwo (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 09:46 PM
How we will miss Eugene! Unbelievable. Eugene was my first contact with Saybrook, when he came and spoke at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School while I was working clinically there. Fascinating individual. I got to have lunch with him at the time…and…also thanks to Mike Arons…I ended up at Saybrook some years later. How could anyone not be impressed with this highly learned and often passionate individual with such extensive knowledge, commitment to humanistic psychology, extraordinary expertise on William James, extensive bibliography and wish to keep pushing the boundaries of knowledge, both himself and with his students. He was sometimes controversial and determined, and a tough taskmaster with students, but he was always present, available, and willing to discuss. For Saybrook and humanistic psychology in general, his work as historian has been invaluable. May we all keep Eugene in our thoughts, and our prayers, at this difficult and important time. And may we remember him well with all the honor he deserves at Saybrook.
Posted by Dr. Ruth Richards (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:03 PM
To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
~Thomas Campbell~
Dr. Taylor will certainly live in the many hearts and minds of the students and colleagues that he worked with and within the Saybrook, Humanistic, and Existential Psychology family.
Posted by Heather McQueen (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:49 PM
I am in shock. It seems impossible. Eugene was one our best and brightest, a true individual who spoke his truth with authenticity. I feel privileged to have known him. My thoughts and love are with his family and all those who hold him close to their hearts.
Posted by David Elkins (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:53 PM
Awe…and wonder in a scholarly, brotherly mentor. I first met Dr Taylor through his writings. I share the gift he bestowed as my professor with hunbdreds of other fortunate scholar practitioners.
He brought William James to the surface in my stream of consciousness and the three streams of psychological history into a confluence & eddies through hours of inspiring and supportive telephone calls—coast to coast. What a teacher!!!!
In the last 10 months, my husband, mother,father, best friend and now the most amazing scholarly presence have become imprinted on my soul, in their passing. If not for the way he evoked the best in me, I would be crushed. Rather I will be lifted even higher!
Dr Eugene Taylor, I will keep writing—and making(!)- history in the 4th Stream.
Until we meet again,
JoAnne MacTaggart
Posted by JoAnne MacTaggart, MA PsyD Candidate (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 11:01 PM
Eugene, I am so sad, but I will always be grateful for the time you spent with me. You were such an inspirational storyteller, and above all else you were a teacher who truly loved his students.
James Regan
Posted by jregan (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 11:22 PM
I share with Eugene a love of history and theory and the confluence of psychology, philosophy, personality and the healing traditions. It was an honor to meet Eugene, to learn from him and for him to lend his astute mind to my own work and aspirations. I can see his deep and kind eyes looking with a little twinkle that would often form subtly (though obvious) across his face as he spoke and told stories. A most engaging soul, who was the quintessential professor, with a capital P, and the immortal scholar. Like many, his scholarly writings were my initial introduction. I never expected that my relatively recent opportunity to know Eugene as a student at Saybrook would be cut so short. It is said that we live on in the memories of those dear and in one’s indelible contributions.. No shortage there in the case of Dr. Eugene Taylor. May our praises sing to the heavens!
With Blessings
-Larry Graber
Posted by lgraber1 (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 12:22 AM
Dr. Eugene Taylor, a man of profound brilliance, was very generous with his time. As Chair of my dissertation committee he was demanding, but also wise and encouraging. His research resulted in many books and his inspiration led and will lead to countless further contributions to the field of psychology. I will miss him greatly as one of the handful of truly great mentors in my life. Forever when I think of Saybrook I will think of Dr. Taylor. May he rest in peace. May his family know that he touched many souls with his graceful style, albeit delivered every now and then with a metaphorical sledge-hammer.
Posted by Eric Kreuter (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 05:00 AM
What a lovely man, his writings “There is no science anywhere that does not involve someone’s personal consciousness somewhere,” how insightful, his heart was in the right place.
Posted by tlc (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 06:47 AM
Oh, dear…My mentor, my dissertation chair, a challenger to do things better, an inspirational thinker and person whose confidence in me led me to tackle some seriously difficult material for my PhD …
This has me in shock and I am deeply, deeply saddened. Prof. Taylor was a giant in the understanding of the Existential-Humanistic and Transpersonal psychology which is the hallmark of Saybrook University and a man whose broad mind was an ever-constant source of wonder. I am shattered over his loss.
Posted by Jose M. Tirado (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 07:45 AM
I can’t believe he’s gone. He taught me all I know about our history as a field and I loved his approach to teaching. He encouraged critical thinking and creativity. I respected him and looked up to him.
Posted by Mavis Ring (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 07:55 AM
I recently became a student with Professor Taylor last August in the classroom and as my mentor. Even though I did not know him long I was left with a lasting impression. He told me he was a rebel. I think of him as a rebel with a cause. I am going to continue his ideas in my career in Saybrook. I will truly miss him. My best wishes to his family and all who knew him. Blessed be.
Richard Schloe
Posted by Richard Schloe (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 08:09 AM
Whether you agreed with Eugene of disagreed with him, in discussing figures like William James or the role of consciousness he always invoked a larger and deeper world, and insisted that our work and our discourse needs to connect to that world. It is hard for me to realize that we will no longer be present (at least physically) to goad, to argue, to challenge, and to inspire.
Fred Weizmann
Posted by Fredric Weizmann (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 08:57 AM
Eugene, rest in peace, released in spirit to sun light and the expanse of the universe beyond time.
Your were quite a presence and an intellectual force at Saybrook.
My sympathies to your family who suffer more, the loss of you.
In good faith,
Alan
Posted by Alan G.Vaughan (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 09:31 AM
I regret never meeting Dr. Taylor. As I entered my first semester in PII this Spring, I very much looked forward to meeting the man in person after “meeting” him first through his writings and our few online exchanges. I could sense a kindred spirit in him. And now looking back at the inspiration and guidance he provided over the last few weeks and realizing the tremendous effort it must has been for him to reach out to his new students, I am indebted. I know he will be deeply missed. I wish the best to his family and friends.
Alex
Posted by abaker5 (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 09:58 AM
This is a HUGE loss for Saybrook. Eugene was thee best.
Posted by Eric Lindblom (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 10:03 AM
I am so sorry to hear of Eugene’s passing. He was a brilliant scholar and an inspiration to fellow faculty. May he have deep and interesting conversations with William James in the afterlife. My deepest condolences to his family.
Jacquie Lewis
Posted by jlewis (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 11:25 AM
EUGENE TAYLOR
Eugene was…how shall I say this?
…large…in his body, mind, ego, and
most of all, spirit.
Karate, lecturing, writing, drumming, eating—
he could play profoundly at all.
How did I know the moment
he slipped out of his coma
and off to that transpersonal world
he already knew well?
As I hurried though Los Angeles’ samsara
I saw his largeness distilled and compressed
into the form of a small black bird
perched alone on a high branch
silhouetted against the sky,
gazing down at me.
On the car stereo I played
George Kahumoku’s “Hawai’i Aloha”
and the bird flew slowly away,
and I miss him very much.
Tom Greening
Posted by Tom Greening (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 12:22 PM
I am deeply saddened to hear this news of Professor Eugene Taylor’s passing. He was brilliant and although his persona reflected a toughness, he was genuinely soft at heart and had a wonderful sense of humor.
I am grateful for the time I spent with him in his courses and after he agreed to be the Chairperson of my final project. It was a true honor learning from him. I would not have survived such the analysis of Jung’s Red Book without Professor Taylor’s guidance throughout.
Rest in Peace Professor Taylor. I am forever grateful and will plan to see you in my dreams for continued guidance.
Theresa Stern Valentic
Posted by Theresa Valentic (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 01:34 PM
At my very first Cheiron Society meeting, in 1980 at Bowdoin College, I attended a session that included a presentation by a scholar on William James who looked awfully like him. As I listened, I became convinced that the presenter was channeling William James’ spirit and had direct access to his thoughts on the wild side of conscious life. I was amazed and intrigued by my introduction to the history of psychology and one of its singular and colorful personalities. I’m not talking about William James here, but Eugene Taylor. Never becoming good friends, Gene and I were cordial colleagues for 33 years. I appreciated his unshakable insistence that the person was at the center of psychology, and for his many scholarly contributions. Ave atque vale!
Posted by James Capshew (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 02:45 PM
In these moments of mourning, I am drawn to reflect on the subtler aspects of Eugene’s character. Subtler, because he was much more than a charismatic apologetic. He was no saint, and would disdain being considered so. However, he was steadfast in his project, honest, direct, and tender. One had only to have seen the glimmer in his eye, or caught a glimpse of his smile — usually offering a joke about a certain fellow named Wilber — to have known this. I offer this line as a kind of reflection for my teacher: “As for me,” to quote Melville, a spirit with whom Eugene often convened, “I am tormented with an everlasting itch for things remote. I love to sail forbidden seas, and land on barbarous coasts.” With love, respect, and sadness.
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 02:49 PM
At my very first Cheiron Society meeting, in 1980 at Bowdoin College, I attended a session that included a presentation by a scholar on William James who looked awfully like him. As I listened, I became convinced that the presenter was channeling William James’ spirit and had direct access to his thoughts on the wild side of conscious life. I was amazed and intrigued by my introduction to the history of psychology and one of its singular and colorful personalities. I’m not talking about William James here, but Eugene Taylor. Never becoming good friends, Gene and I were cordial colleagues for 33 years. I appreciated his unshakable insistence that the person was at the center of psychology, and for his many scholarly contributions. Ave atque vale!
“We are sorry to see Eugene go,” said Mark Schulman, President of Saybrook University, “He was a scholar and a teacher respected by all with whom he came in contact. He is, truly, irreplacable.”
Taylor died on January 30 at 10:30 a.m. EST with his family in attendance. He was 66.
Taylor was a prominent historian of psychology. The author of books including Shadow Culture: Psychology and Spirituality in America; The Mystery of Personality: A History of Psychodynamic Theories; and William James on Consciousness Beyond the Margins, he was a research historian at Harvard Medical School, the curator of Gordon Allport’s papers, and an internationally renowned scholar on the work of William James. He was also the founder of the Cambridge Institute of Psychology and Religion, a board member of the Philemon Foundation, a fellow in two APA divisions, and a founding member of The New Existentialists.
He held degrees from Southern Methodist University, Harvard Divinity School (where he was the 1983 William James Lecturer), and a PhD in the History and Philosophy of Psychology from Boston University.
An early student of humanistic psychology, Taylor was present at some of the earliest transpersonal psychology conferences in the 1970s. Combined with his long-standing interest in Eastern religions, this exposure helped develop his scholarly interest in the study of consciousness itself, which he placed at the center of the psychological experience. Psychology, he emphasized, is a “person centered science,” in which the subjective experiences of everyone involved are at the center of best practice. He held that the current “neuro-revolution” in science will further affirm this: that the effort to study the neurons of the brain for the stirrings of consciousness will lead to the realization that there is no “empirical” way to study consciousness without involving radical subjectivity. To take that subjectivity into account as central to understanding rather than futilely trying to dismiss it was, he said, the essence of good science.
“There is no science anywhere that does not involve someone’s personal consciousness somewhere,” he wrote.
His work at Saybrook, where he at various times chaired the programs in Consciousness Studies and Humanistic & Transpersonal Psychology, inspired many to follow in his footsteps and put existential psychology at the center of their own work and practice.
“Eugene gave much of his life to humanistic psychology, and served in many ways as our historian,” said Louis Hoffman, the President of the Society for Humanistic Psychology (APA Division 32) and a colleague of Taylor’s on Saybrook’s executive faculty. “His passion for humanistic psychology was evident to anyone who knew him. His scholarship and, more importantly, the man, will be dearly missed by his students, colleagues, and the whole humanistic community.”
Comments
Although I did not get to meet Dr. Taylor I sense that the loss to our Saybrook community and beyond will be great. I am sad I didn’t have the opportunity to attend a lecture, or hear him speak at some conference. My condolences go out to his family and our family at Saybrook I know he will be missed.
Posted by ldaniels1 (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:22 PM
We have all lost a giant presence and a friend in humanistic psychology. How very sad. My prayers are with Eugene and his family and his students and his Saybrook colleagues.
Posted by John Adams (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:27 PM
Eugene was a true scholar and placed so much value on helping our students at Saybrook become true scholars. He had a passion for telling the story of humanistic psychology and his knowledge and presence will be greatly missed. My sympathies go out to his family and all who were close to him.
Nancy Southern, EdD
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 05:40 PM
Hey Eugene, say hi to William James for me. I know you guys have a lot to talk about in the great hereafter. Until we meet again.
Love,
Brent Robbins
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:00 PM
A great loss for humanistic psychology and particularly for Saybrook. Eugene was a true original. I treasured my colleagueship at Saybrook and Division of Humanistic Psychology and learned a great deal from him over the years we worked together. My thoughts are with his family, the Saybrook community and everyone he loved and who loved him.
Maureen O’Hara,
Posted by Maureen O’Hara (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:29 PM
It must be incredibly frustrating for him to know the truth now and NOT be able to tell us! Or he may just be amused that we think he is “gone” when he is very much “here.” May his memory on this earth be eternal and may we all feel the impact his soul on our profession!
Posted by mtaheny (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:39 PM
I first encountered Eugene Taylor through his written works and was deeply impressed by his scholarship and clear-eyed vision of the centrality of spirituality and consciousness to the study of psychology. He was a trailblazer in both the history of psychology and the fusing of Asian and western psychologies. I had the good fortune of meeting him in Cambridge at his study where we had a wide-ranging discussion on all topics relating to psychology’s history. Thereafter we went to the Swedenborg Church. History of psychology has lost a vital voice. Peace to you, Eugene! Thank you for your gifts!
-David Schmit
St. Catherine University
Posted by David Schmit (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 06:54 PM
Gene’s passing comes as a great shock to me. Although in recent years our paths have diverged, I count Gene as one of the most congenial and articulate colleagues in the history of psychology I have known, especially in my association with him through Cheiron meetings. I knew him particularly when he was at Harvard immersed as he was in his studies on William James. He seemed to have a particular gift of transporting his colleagues, including me, into James’ thoughts and insights into human consciousness through his conference papers and in more intimate conversation. Anyone was captivated by his affable and gracious manner – a true humanist professionally and personally.
Posted by Peter Behrens (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 07:08 PM
Prof.Eugene Taylor will be greatly missed. He was one of the finest that Saybrook University had. He was a great mentor to me, and chair of my dissertation committee. Eugene Taylor was passionate about teaching, and meticulous about his work.I learned a great deal from this patient,wonderful man. He had a beautiful mind and conveyed ideas with such clarity, you got the picture right away!. I’m sad that we were not able to complete the work we started. He was kind and very intuitive. Goodnight my friend may God in heaven hold you close. Rest in Peace.
My wishes to his family.
Posted by Ebie Okonkwo (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 09:46 PM
How we will miss Eugene! Unbelievable. Eugene was my first contact with Saybrook, when he came and spoke at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School while I was working clinically there. Fascinating individual. I got to have lunch with him at the time…and…also thanks to Mike Arons…I ended up at Saybrook some years later. How could anyone not be impressed with this highly learned and often passionate individual with such extensive knowledge, commitment to humanistic psychology, extraordinary expertise on William James, extensive bibliography and wish to keep pushing the boundaries of knowledge, both himself and with his students. He was sometimes controversial and determined, and a tough taskmaster with students, but he was always present, available, and willing to discuss. For Saybrook and humanistic psychology in general, his work as historian has been invaluable. May we all keep Eugene in our thoughts, and our prayers, at this difficult and important time. And may we remember him well with all the honor he deserves at Saybrook.
Posted by Dr. Ruth Richards (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:03 PM
To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
~Thomas Campbell~
Dr. Taylor will certainly live in the many hearts and minds of the students and colleagues that he worked with and within the Saybrook, Humanistic, and Existential Psychology family.
Posted by Heather McQueen (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:49 PM
I am in shock. It seems impossible. Eugene was one our best and brightest, a true individual who spoke his truth with authenticity. I feel privileged to have known him. My thoughts and love are with his family and all those who hold him close to their hearts.
Posted by David Elkins (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 10:53 PM
Awe…and wonder in a scholarly, brotherly mentor. I first met Dr Taylor through his writings. I share the gift he bestowed as my professor with hunbdreds of other fortunate scholar practitioners.
He brought William James to the surface in my stream of consciousness and the three streams of psychological history into a confluence & eddies through hours of inspiring and supportive telephone calls—coast to coast. What a teacher!!!!
In the last 10 months, my husband, mother,father, best friend and now the most amazing scholarly presence have become imprinted on my soul, in their passing. If not for the way he evoked the best in me, I would be crushed. Rather I will be lifted even higher!
Dr Eugene Taylor, I will keep writing—and making(!)- history in the 4th Stream.
Until we meet again,
JoAnne MacTaggart
Posted by JoAnne MacTaggart, MA PsyD Candidate (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 11:01 PM
Eugene, I am so sad, but I will always be grateful for the time you spent with me. You were such an inspirational storyteller, and above all else you were a teacher who truly loved his students.
James Regan
Posted by jregan (not verified) | 01/30/2013 @ 11:22 PM
I share with Eugene a love of history and theory and the confluence of psychology, philosophy, personality and the healing traditions. It was an honor to meet Eugene, to learn from him and for him to lend his astute mind to my own work and aspirations. I can see his deep and kind eyes looking with a little twinkle that would often form subtly (though obvious) across his face as he spoke and told stories. A most engaging soul, who was the quintessential professor, with a capital P, and the immortal scholar. Like many, his scholarly writings were my initial introduction. I never expected that my relatively recent opportunity to know Eugene as a student at Saybrook would be cut so short. It is said that we live on in the memories of those dear and in one’s indelible contributions.. No shortage there in the case of Dr. Eugene Taylor. May our praises sing to the heavens!
With Blessings
-Larry Graber
Posted by lgraber1 (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 12:22 AM
Dr. Eugene Taylor, a man of profound brilliance, was very generous with his time. As Chair of my dissertation committee he was demanding, but also wise and encouraging. His research resulted in many books and his inspiration led and will lead to countless further contributions to the field of psychology. I will miss him greatly as one of the handful of truly great mentors in my life. Forever when I think of Saybrook I will think of Dr. Taylor. May he rest in peace. May his family know that he touched many souls with his graceful style, albeit delivered every now and then with a metaphorical sledge-hammer.
Posted by Eric Kreuter (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 05:00 AM
What a lovely man, his writings “There is no science anywhere that does not involve someone’s personal consciousness somewhere,” how insightful, his heart was in the right place.
Posted by tlc (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 06:47 AM
Oh, dear…My mentor, my dissertation chair, a challenger to do things better, an inspirational thinker and person whose confidence in me led me to tackle some seriously difficult material for my PhD …
This has me in shock and I am deeply, deeply saddened. Prof. Taylor was a giant in the understanding of the Existential-Humanistic and Transpersonal psychology which is the hallmark of Saybrook University and a man whose broad mind was an ever-constant source of wonder. I am shattered over his loss.
Posted by Jose M. Tirado (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 07:45 AM
I can’t believe he’s gone. He taught me all I know about our history as a field and I loved his approach to teaching. He encouraged critical thinking and creativity. I respected him and looked up to him.
Posted by Mavis Ring (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 07:55 AM
I recently became a student with Professor Taylor last August in the classroom and as my mentor. Even though I did not know him long I was left with a lasting impression. He told me he was a rebel. I think of him as a rebel with a cause. I am going to continue his ideas in my career in Saybrook. I will truly miss him. My best wishes to his family and all who knew him. Blessed be.
Richard Schloe
Posted by Richard Schloe (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 08:09 AM
Whether you agreed with Eugene of disagreed with him, in discussing figures like William James or the role of consciousness he always invoked a larger and deeper world, and insisted that our work and our discourse needs to connect to that world. It is hard for me to realize that we will no longer be present (at least physically) to goad, to argue, to challenge, and to inspire.
Fred Weizmann
Posted by Fredric Weizmann (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 08:57 AM
Eugene, rest in peace, released in spirit to sun light and the expanse of the universe beyond time.
Your were quite a presence and an intellectual force at Saybrook.
My sympathies to your family who suffer more, the loss of you.
In good faith,
Alan
Posted by Alan G.Vaughan (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 09:31 AM
I regret never meeting Dr. Taylor. As I entered my first semester in PII this Spring, I very much looked forward to meeting the man in person after “meeting” him first through his writings and our few online exchanges. I could sense a kindred spirit in him. And now looking back at the inspiration and guidance he provided over the last few weeks and realizing the tremendous effort it must has been for him to reach out to his new students, I am indebted. I know he will be deeply missed. I wish the best to his family and friends.
Alex
Posted by abaker5 (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 09:58 AM
This is a HUGE loss for Saybrook. Eugene was thee best.
Posted by Eric Lindblom (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 10:03 AM
I am so sorry to hear of Eugene’s passing. He was a brilliant scholar and an inspiration to fellow faculty. May he have deep and interesting conversations with William James in the afterlife. My deepest condolences to his family.
Jacquie Lewis
Posted by jlewis (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 11:25 AM
EUGENE TAYLOR
Eugene was…how shall I say this?
…large…in his body, mind, ego, and
most of all, spirit.
Karate, lecturing, writing, drumming, eating—
he could play profoundly at all.
How did I know the moment
he slipped out of his coma
and off to that transpersonal world
he already knew well?
As I hurried though Los Angeles’ samsara
I saw his largeness distilled and compressed
into the form of a small black bird
perched alone on a high branch
silhouetted against the sky,
gazing down at me.
On the car stereo I played
George Kahumoku’s “Hawai’i Aloha”
and the bird flew slowly away,
and I miss him very much.
Tom Greening
Posted by Tom Greening (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 12:22 PM
I am deeply saddened to hear this news of Professor Eugene Taylor’s passing. He was brilliant and although his persona reflected a toughness, he was genuinely soft at heart and had a wonderful sense of humor.
I am grateful for the time I spent with him in his courses and after he agreed to be the Chairperson of my final project. It was a true honor learning from him. I would not have survived such the analysis of Jung’s Red Book without Professor Taylor’s guidance throughout.
Rest in Peace Professor Taylor. I am forever grateful and will plan to see you in my dreams for continued guidance.
Theresa Stern Valentic
Posted by Theresa Valentic (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 01:34 PM
At my very first Cheiron Society meeting, in 1980 at Bowdoin College, I attended a session that included a presentation by a scholar on William James who looked awfully like him. As I listened, I became convinced that the presenter was channeling William James’ spirit and had direct access to his thoughts on the wild side of conscious life. I was amazed and intrigued by my introduction to the history of psychology and one of its singular and colorful personalities. I’m not talking about William James here, but Eugene Taylor. Never becoming good friends, Gene and I were cordial colleagues for 33 years. I appreciated his unshakable insistence that the person was at the center of psychology, and for his many scholarly contributions. Ave atque vale!
Posted by James Capshew (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 02:45 PM
In these moments of mourning, I am drawn to reflect on the subtler aspects of Eugene’s character. Subtler, because he was much more than a charismatic apologetic. He was no saint, and would disdain being considered so. However, he was steadfast in his project, honest, direct, and tender. One had only to have seen the glimmer in his eye, or caught a glimpse of his smile — usually offering a joke about a certain fellow named Wilber — to have known this. I offer this line as a kind of reflection for my teacher: “As for me,” to quote Melville, a spirit with whom Eugene often convened, “I am tormented with an everlasting itch for things remote. I love to sail forbidden seas, and land on barbarous coasts.” With love, respect, and sadness.
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 02:49 PM
At my very first Cheiron Society meeting, in 1980 at Bowdoin College, I attended a session that included a presentation by a scholar on William James who looked awfully like him. As I listened, I became convinced that the presenter was channeling William James’ spirit and had direct access to his thoughts on the wild side of conscious life. I was amazed and intrigued by my introduction to the history of psychology and one of its singular and colorful personalities. I’m not talking about William James here, but Eugene Taylor. Never becoming good friends, Gene and I were cordial colleagues for 33 years. I appreciated his unshakable insistence that the person was at the center of psychology, and for his many scholarly contributions. Ave atque vale!
James Capshew
Indiana University
Posted by James Capshew (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 04:16 PM
Over a decade a ago, I started to know Dr Eugence Taylor while I was writing a research paper on stream of consciousness for my class (Self and Identity) offered by Erin Driver-Linn at Harvard. I was enrolled at Harvard Divinity School then concentrating on Buddhist studies and trying to find whehter James’s stream of consciousness concept was primed in one way or another by the similar concept and practice in Yogacara Buddhism (Vijnanapada, the mind only ). Dr Taylor was recommended for my consultation and he was very approachable and helpful in providing background info. He ended up saying we have so far found “the smoking gun” only. I finally met him in person at the SHP 2011 in DC …without asking if there has been any update … May Peace and Luminosity Be with You for good!
Posted by caifang Jeremy Zhu, Ph.D. in Beijing (not verified) | 01/31/2013 @ 10:29 PM
A brilliant mind, an indomitable spirit. Dr. Taylor was my professor for two classes. Immensely knowledgable. I feel extremely sad.
Posted by Constance Avery-Clark (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 09:01 AM
The sad news of Dr. Taylor’s death arrived by email this morning. What immediately came to mind was the memory of our last visit during the Tucson, AZ conference on consciousness. That was just one of several simple, informal, unplanned exchanges that I had with him–brief conversations that touched me, guided me, and sometimes helped me to find my way. Whatever he may have been to others, to me he was a scholar, a warrior, and a gentleman. Peace and Blessings to you Dr. Eugene! Peace and Blessings to you.
Posted by Timothy Storlie (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 09:08 AM
Professor Taylor and I shared passionate discussions about the need to build strong bridges between philosophy and psychology. At the August 2012 RC, it seemed to me that Eugene was somehow transcending, changing form, perhaps preparing to shift consciousness. And only days ago, I saw his face in a meditation. That was the day he passed away. With respect for the lessons learned and for the insights and scholarship given to our profession, I honor the transition of an amazing man.
Posted by Carol Veizer (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 09:26 AM
Hello dear friends:
This is a shock.
I remember Eugene’s great energies for what he loved and his willingness to keep learning. He was passionate about humanistic and transpersonal psychology, made important contributions, and brought more clarity, rigor, bridges with mainstream fields, and energy into these fields.
We sometimes had different views, while sharing the “big picture,” but I remember him as someone who was willing to dialogue and sometimes temper his views through such dialogue.
May we remember his contributions to our communities, our fields of inquiry, and to our lives.
Blessings and best wishes, Donald
Posted by Donald Rothberg (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 09:27 AM
Dr. Taylor!The last time we talked in was in a large circle regarding cultural competency. Thank you for your openess. Thank you for all of your gifts and talents. You made an incredible impact on everyone who came in contact with you. Always, I was given much food for thought. My deepest condolences to your beloved.
Posted by Victoria Navarro Oana (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 09:34 AM
Dr. Taylor,
Thank you very much for your contribution in humanistic psychology. Your vigor in that field will surely be missed. Rest in Peace.
Posted by Jiselle Esparza (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 09:55 AM
I’ve known Eugene as a colleague in the psychology of religion and the history of psychology for 30 years or more. I benefitted greatly from his access to the Gordon Allport papers, and from the many meals we shared at meetings of the American Psychological Association, as well as extensive correspondence. I especially apprecited his personal kindness. At one APA meeting I received word that my brother had died, and it was Eugene who saw me through the long evening before I could go home. On another occasion he guided me through Boston traffic all the way to my destination in the suburbs. I will miss him!
Posted by Hendrika Vande Kemp (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 04:33 PM
Whoa. There are so many more conversations I intended to have with you. About humanistic psychology, about matters subversive, iconoclastic, challenging. I didn’t always agree with you, but you did challenge me to think deeper and keep carrying on. Thanks for supporting my research interests. Thanks for being a great mentor. Thanks…for the classes you passionately engaged in with your students. For expecting and demanding the best of all of us. Now you are free and I hope you are conversing with William James as we speak!
Posted by Lael Curtis (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 05:03 PM
Eugene was the profoundly learned and fluidly articulate coyote of Saybrook, standing on the edge (of groups of people, of research, of terrain) from which he laubed his sharp arrows of insight and critique. Eugene was one of Saybrook’s esteemed elders and now joins Arne Collen and Jeanne Achterberg as the historic golden era of Saybrook wanes.
Posted by Denita Benyshek (not verified) | 02/02/2013 @ 07:13 PM
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Dr. Taylor’s passing. I remember well the chart on the streams of consciousness, and his remark that if we ever meet again on the street, he will want us to be able to identify each and explain its origins. Well, Eugene, I guess the street we meet on will be a different one than originally pictured. You will be sadly missed. Thank you for your many contributions to the history of psychology. We were inspired by your passion.
Posted by Donna King (not verified) | 02/03/2013 @ 06:06 AM
I was shocked to hear about Dr. Taylor’s passing. I had the privilege of being his student for the past year, he was working with me in Research practicum and had accepted to be my essay lead reader and dissertation chair. I met him at his Boston office this past November and enjoyed an afternoon of talking about William James, and the influence of his works in modern physics. It was such a joy!
Thank you Dr. Taylor for being a wonderful teacher, and for being an inspiration! You will be greatly missed!!
Posted by eochoa (not verified) | 02/04/2013 @ 05:49 PM
I had the great honor and pleasure of working with Eugene for both my MA (1995) and Ph.D. (2002); he was my doctoral chair and he was ungodly demanding. So much so, that my pet name for him became “Mean Gene” and that was given in fond gratitude because his high standards showed me what I was capable of and left me a far better scholar than I ever dreamed possible. I first met Eugene in 1995 after wandering by chance into a lecture he was giving on how the Freudians essentially rewrote the history of psychology. He spoke for two hours with only a cup of water in one hand and a slide projector clicker in the other and I was mesmerized. That experience literally changed my life as I abandoned my previous research direction and went with him. Eugene was a brilliant person, an incredible character, and just a lovely human being to be with. My world and the field of psychology is far poorer place now that he is gone. I’m going to miss you, Gene.
Posted by Paul Shane, Ph.D. (not verified) | 02/05/2013 @ 04:38 AM
Challenging and robust in his Jamesian studies, Dr. Taylor held to a standard all that was remarkable in scholasticism. A simple conversation became a Harvard feast. Enjoy your visit among the stars, Eugene. James is waiting for your arrival.
Posted by Kate Kobylarz (not verified) | 02/05/2013 @ 06:02 AM
I cherish the short-time I got to know Dr. Taylor. I first met him at my first RC in August of 2012. I took his seminars in Boston Psychopathology. I could listen to his personal experiences for hours. He was a brilliant person and compassionate man. I took his History and Systems course last semester. I gained knowledge not only on the history of psychology, but learned more about myself as a person. I appreciated the time he took to provide me feedback on my writing. I felt he was trying to help me improve to become a better writer. I was shocked and saddened to learn of his passing. To the people who knew him for a long-time, you are lucky. Though my encounter with Dr. Taylor was short, I feel blessed. I send my condolences to his family and friends.
To a wonderful man!
Joni Weldon
Posted by jweldon1 (not verified) | 02/06/2013 @ 02:22 PM
I was shocked and saddened by Dr. Taylor’s passing. I had been away from Saybrook for a while, and when I returned two RC’s ago, it was great to see Dr. Taylor and speak with him briefly. I wish I would have taken more time now. We never know how long we have, do we? I will miss him. I have one of his books on my bookshelf right now…. Good-bye, Dr. Taylor. You’ll be missed.
Tammy Summers
Posted by tsummers (not verified) | 02/06/2013 @ 07:59 PM
I am deeply sorry to hear of Professor Taylor’s passing. Although I did not have the opportunity to meet him face-to-face, I feel that via both his writings and a brief email correspondence we shared two years ago, that the integrity with which he moved through this world was radiantly evident. As a lover of William James myself, it brought me great peace to know that someone with Eugene’s character was in the acting role of representing this important historical figure in our field. My heart goes out to his family and to the entire Saybrook community. He surely leaves behind a wonderful example of a life well-lived.
Posted by Jonathan Reynolds (not verified) | 02/09/2013 @ 08:15 AM
I am going to miss you Dr. Taylor. I cannot believe that i will never get to talk to you…this hurts a lot. Thank you for everything. Because of you today “I am a Doctor.” Thank you for believeing in me. I will miss you dearly and most of all i will miss our converstations.
Posted by Anonymous (not verified) | 02/13/2013 @ 09:55 PM
ET has influenced me significantly both professionally and personally
– an experience that I have held close to my heart,
and made possible only by his magic elixir that clearly has touched so many !
This will remain a part of my consciousness, and cherished for years to come.
I have been deeply preoccupied and deeply saddened, in disbelief,
by his experiences, as well as the circumstances of his death.
Posted by Ancy Abraham (not verified) | 06/18/2013 @ 05:33 PM
