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Glossary of terms

rank: Every groupassigns rank to people according to how closely they measure up to the group's values. Members of a bowling group value skill and good sportsmanship, so they give each other rank accordingly. Members of a church value piety and leadership, so they give each other rank accordingly. Some kinds of rank that society gives can be earned (for example hockey skills through practice), and some kinds of rank are given because of unearned characteristics (being born into a wealthy family, or being musically talented). The important thing to remember about rank is that it is given to you by others, not given to you by yourself. Psychologist Arnold Mindell adds to the usual kinds of rank "psychological" and "spiritual" rank. Pschological rank is often given by groups to individuals who have experienced hardship and suffering and nevertheless show striking balance, resilience, and other indicators of fine mental health. Spiritual rank is given by groups to individuals who have unusual access to a transcendent dimension and show that through exemplary acts (e. g. Mother Theresa).

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