Capacity to become

Human potential may be understood as the capacity to become what at the present time it is not, or to manifest particular attributes or qualities which at the present time it does not. Capacity does not take into account the probability of a particular feature being realized. Such particular features may or may not be welcome, and may be encouraged or discouraged by action before that feature is realized. Such capacity is dependent on time and context, and its attributes and projected changes reflect the assumptions of those defining it. A systematic study would seek to determine factors which prevent the acquiring of conditions which render possible desirable potential attributes, and further, ways in which such factors may themselves be prevented. This is one of three concepts suggested by Israel Scheffler to be useful in defining [human potential]

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