Basic e*ra* (IcRuUc)

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There are many similarities between the e*ra* and the e*ra, [IcRuAu] for both are very actively and environmentally oriented adjustments with strong defenses (repression) against ideational activity. The primary difference lies in the lack of social versatility of the e*ra*. He has learned one role very well and is very literal and precise in the way he plays it. Stereotyped behavior, thus, is a primary characteristic of the e*r*a. [IcFcAu]

The e*ra* tends to be a rugged, independent, self-reliant and irascible person. He is practically oriented and has marked self-confidence. He usually can learn complex mechanical-manipulative procedures in a highly effective manner, and whatever he does, he does thoroughly. He often excels in physical activities; many star athletes have this adjustment.

In spite of his externalized orientation, the e*ra* is essentially a very self-centered individual who makes his judgments almost entirely according to his own needs and expectations. He has an "every man for himself" attitude that makes him a ruthless and unfeeling person in social-interpersonal situations. When he learns a skill or technique, he expects and demands the recognition and respect to which he is entitled. He has no false modesty, is never subservient, and is highly vocal in the manner in which he demands his rights. In the extreme, he can be an avaricious, demanding person who takes what he wants without guilt or anxiety.

The adequacy of this adjustment is very much a function of the extent to which the individual has been properly trained. He is very dependent on outside direction of acquiring skills and techniques. He responds well to drill, discipline, and repetition. However, he has to have external reassurance that what he is doing is correct, for he is almost totally unable to differentiate the good from the bad. In this sense, he is the kind of person who can be taught that black is white and will continue to believe it in spite of repeated experience to the contrary. He can be efficient, albeit conceited, technician in a society that provides well-organized and disciplined instruction with facilities for evaluation and correction of individual performance. Where this organization and discipline is lacking, but where an individual can be trained to be self-confident without productivity, the e*ra* can be unrealistic, deluded person with grandiose ideas and false pretensions.

The era* [EuRuUc] is aware of the rejection and hostility he receives from the people in his environment, and much of his adjustment is taken up with getting even with, or proving to the person in his world that he is better than they think. In contrast, the er*a* [EuFcUc] is relatively oblivious to the hostility and discrimination of specific people. He is much more conscious of evil influences that are undefinable and abstract; he is usually preoccupied with finding external means to control and counteract these forces. Rays, emanations, and waves are much more threatening to him than specific people. Quite logically, therefore, many e*ra [IcRuAu] * lay great store in their ability to withstand, fend off, and neutralize these influences by mental discipline, physical stamina, and self-confidence.

Essentially, the e*ra* is a cold, calculating, and highly competitive person who is self-assured and aristocratic rather than authoritarian. He has almost no capacity for sympathy or compassion. He usually has developed some skill or technique to a high degree of proficiency, but often attaches more importance to this particular skill than is warranted. Many highly skilled artisans, musicians, aircraft pilots, and classical ballet dancers are found in this cluster; they are usually pretentious, contentious, and aristocratic.