Est: Playing the Game

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Ahiman Rezon 1756
est: Playing the Game
Formation1971
FounderWerner Erhard
Dissolved1984
TypeSelf-help
HeadquartersSan Francisco, California
Region served
United States
Official language
English


est: Playing the Game was a self-help program developed by Werner Erhard in 1971. The program was part of the larger Erhard Seminars Training (est) series, which aimed to transform participants' ability to experience life and personal effectiveness.

History[edit | edit source]

The est training was first offered in San Francisco, California in October 1971. The program quickly gained popularity and spread to other major cities in the United States. By the mid-1970s, tens of thousands of people had participated in the training.

Program Structure[edit | edit source]

The est training was an intensive 60-hour course conducted over two weekends. Participants were required to follow strict rules, including remaining in the training room for long periods, not using the restroom without permission, and adhering to a specific diet. The training included lectures, group discussions, and experiential processes designed to challenge participants' beliefs and perceptions.

Philosophy[edit | edit source]

The philosophy of est was based on the idea that individuals are responsible for their own experiences and that they have the power to transform their lives by changing their thinking. The training emphasized personal responsibility, integrity, and the importance of living in the present moment.

Impact and Legacy[edit | edit source]

The est training had a significant impact on the self-help and personal development industry. Many of the concepts and techniques introduced in est have been incorporated into other self-help programs and therapies. In 1984, Werner Erhard replaced est with a new program called The Forum, which continued to build on the principles of est.

Criticism[edit | edit source]

The est training was controversial and faced criticism for its intense and confrontational methods. Some participants reported positive life changes, while others felt the training was psychologically damaging. Despite the controversy, est maintained a dedicated following and influenced many other self-help movements.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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