The diploma thesis analyses the "integral theory" of Ken Wilber: its construction and content, its method and coherence. Thereby it carries a twofold focus:

The first one consists of a systematic reconstruction of the theory, which Wilber presents in his numerous and voluminous works. In four parts its fundamentals are explained, its main terms introduced and their function with regard to the theory elucidated. Part one introduces the notional and semantic basics of the holarchical development model of Wilber. Thereby the notion of the holon plays a key role. The second part concentrates on the vertical "base frame" of the theory, i.e. the holarchy's levels and lines of development, as well as the self and its states of consciousness. Part three deals with the horizontal dimension of the theory, Wilber's model of quadrants and its more current differentiation into a theory of indigenous perspectives. The fourth part presents the main metatheoretical ideas about an integral theory and its preceding integral practice.

The fifth and largest part is dedicated to the second focus of the thesis and consists of a critical work-immanent analysis and evaluation of the theory. The analysis concentrates on three neuralgic points: the notion of a holon, the claim of an endless nesting of the kosmos and the placement of the so-called "transpersonal" experiences. This analysis is followed by a critical appreciation of Wilber's work according to its form (language) and content (method, coherence, validity of its theses), especially with regard to its claim to a scientific status. Last but not least, the thesis pursues the question about the adequacy of its understanding as a scientific theory.

The diploma thesis has been submitted in the winter term of 2005/06 at the Seminary for Fundamental Philosophical Questions in Theology of the University in Münster (Germany).

Evaluators: Prof. DDr. Klaus Müller, Prof. Dr. Jürgen Werbick

A revised and extended version is being prepared for publication.

Comments, suggestions and criticism are welcome.