In this blog, we will explore some ideas regarding the essence of humanity and the nature of a life well lived. What does it mean to be human? What is human nature? What is human perseverance? What is the purpose of human life? What is the nature of a satisfying life, an optimal life? These questions have puzzled philosophers, theologians, poets, and thinkers across cultures and centuries. While there may be no single, definitive answer, we can gain profound insights by examining the perspectives of those who have contemplated the depths of the human experience.
The world record holder for the lifeform on Earth with the largest number of genes per cell is.... mankind? the blue whale? No... a recently discovered six inch fern native to some South Pacific islands (for reasons which as yet remain a mystery), with approximately 52 times more genes per cell than humans. So, if we are not the most genetically complex entity, what makes humans distinctive from other lifeforms, from other primates with whom we share about 98 % of our DNA?
Human genes code for significantly larger brains relative to body size compared to other primates. This increase in brain size, particularly in the cerebral cortex, is associated with advanced cognitive functions such as abstract thinking, problem-solving, and language. Humans possess complex language abilities that are unparalleled in the animal kingdom. This includes not only spoken language, but also written and sign languages. While other primates can communicate using vocalizations and gestures, their systems lack the complexity of human languages.
Human societies are characterized by complex social structures and cultural practices. We engage in activities such as art, music, and religion, which are not observed in other primates. Our ability to form large, cooperative groups and pass down extensive catalogues of knowledge through generations is a key aspect of our species.
Self-awareness and introspection are complex cognitive abilities that involve the recognition of one's own existence, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. While humans possess a highly developed capacity for self-awareness and introspection, research suggests that some non-human animals also exhibit varying degrees of these abilities. Research also has found a potential link between social complexity and the development of self-awareness in animals. Highly social species, such as primates, dolphins, and certain bird species, tend to exhibit more advanced forms of self-awareness compared to solitary species.
Are our genes our destiny? While our genes undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping various aspects of our lives, including our physical traits, predispositions to certain diseases, and even many behavioral tendencies, they do not entirely determine our destiny. Emerging research in the field of epigenetics has revealed that, while our genes provide our unique personal foundation, our experiences, choices, and the environment in which we live also significantly contribute to the trajectory of our lives.
Researchers have generally concluded that the average heritability rate of all human genes for an average individual is approximately 0.5. This means that on average, half of the differences among individuals in a population are due to genetic differences, while the other half is due to environmental factors, including lifestyle choices. Most traits are the result of hundreds of genetic factors, each with a small influence. For example, heritability estimates for height and obesity range from 40% to 80%, indicating that genetics contribute significantly, but environmental factors also play a significant role. The relationship between these factors is complex, and it is essential to consider their interplay when discussing the role of genes/environments/and choices in shaping our individual human traits.
Let's now consider the Bonobos, one of our closest primate relatives, who offer a fascinating view into an animal society built on principles of cooperation, empathy, and nonviolence. In stark contrast to most human cultures, where violence and war often bring significant hardships to members, bonobo society provides a fascinating display of how peaceful interactions can be maintained within and between groups. There are a handful of human cultures that have been observed to be relatively nonviolent and cooperative, exhibiting some similarities to the social behaviors of bonobos. The Semai, Buid, and Inuit peoples are primarily indigenous cultures that have maintained many of their traditional ways of life and have engaged in much less violence than typical human cultures. More on that in another blog!
Different philosophical schools have conceived of human nature in various ways, reflecting diverse perspectives on what fundamentally characterizes human beings.
Aristotle: Human nature is characterized by rationality. Aristotle believed that the highest function of humans is to think rationally, and thus, the best life is one of contemplation and philosophical inquiry.
Epicureans: Human nature is driven by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. They argued that happiness is achieved through the experience of pleasure and the minimization of suffering.
Thomas Hobbes: Human nature is inherently selfish and competitive. Hobbes famously described life in the state of nature as "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short," necessitating a strong central authority to maintain order.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau: Human nature is fundamentally good, but corrupted by society. Rousseau believed that humans are born free and good, but societal influences distort this natural state.
Confucius and Mencius: Human nature is essentially good. These ancient Chinese philosophers posited that humans have an innate tendency towards goodness, which can be cultivated through proper education and moral development.
Xunzi: Human nature is inherently evil and requires cultivation. Contrary to Confucius and Mencius, Xunzi believed that humans are born with selfish desires and need moral education to become virtuous.
John Locke: Human nature is a blank slate (tabula rasa). Locke argued that individuals are born without innate ideas, and knowledge is acquired through experience and sensory perception.
David Hume: Human nature is a mix of altruism and selfishness. Hume suggested that humans possess both self-interested and benevolent tendencies, which can be shaped by cultural and social influences.
Modern Evolutionary Biology: Human nature is shaped by a combination of evolutionary adaptations and cultural influences. Many core aspects of human nature like emotions, cognitive biases, and social tendencies likely emerged from this evolutionary process as adaptations that promoted survival and reproduction.
The Nature of a Good Life According to Different Religions Despite their differences, these religious perspectives share a common goal: to guide individuals toward a life of deeper meaning, inner peace, and ultimate fulfillment. While Christianity and Islam generally uphold the idea of an eternal soul distinct from the body, Judaism presents a more integrated view of the soul and body, and Buddhism denies the existence of a permanent soul altogether.
Buddhism can be considered both a philosophy and a religion, as it contains elements of both. Buddhism does not have a creator God or require worship of deities, which is a defining feature of many religions. However, it does involve belief in supernatural concepts like reincarnation and realms of existence, which are religious in nature. The realms are not fixed, permanent places, but rather states of existence that beings can transition between based on their karma and mental states (from Hell realm to Buddha realm). The Buddha himself did not intend his teachings as a strict doctrine or religion, but rather a pragmatic guide, based on his own insights, to end suffering in life.
Buddhism offers a positive view of human nature, asserting that it is fundamentally good, but temporarily obscured by confusion and cravings/aversions, contrasting with many Western perspectives that see human nature as flawed or in need of redemption. True happiness is achieved by relinquishing unhealthy desires, cultivating a complex psychological state that includes healthy affective, cognitive, and motivational components through practices such as mindfulness, the study of Buddhist teachings, and meditative exercises. Ultimately, a good life in Buddhism is one that transcends ordinary desires and suffering and attains a perfected mental state/enlightenment by fostering tranquility, understanding, and compassion.
In Islam, the concept of a good life is deeply rooted in faith, righteous deeds, and finding joy in worship and closeness to Allah, characterized by selfless service to others, overcoming one's ego, and emulating the Prophet Muhammad's character. Another perspective emphasizes the balance between the body, mind, and soul, fulfilling both spiritual and bodily needs, where the mind ensures neither the soul's aspirations nor the body's desires dominate. The Prophet Muhammad's teachings highlight the importance of this balance, suggesting a pure soul and healthy body contribute to a satisfactory life, creating a lifestyle that restricts excessive bodily pleasures, while promoting spiritual growth and mental well-being.
The concept of a "good life" in Judaism encompasses reverence for God through observing His commandments, ethical living rooted in justice and kindness, repairing the world through social responsibility and community service, embodying the spiritual and moral teachings of the Torah, upholding human dignity and moral agency, seeking inner peace and harmonious relationships, and practicing love and forgiveness; these multifaceted principles guide Jews in their pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life in accordance with their religious and ethical values.
From a Christian viewpoint, the good life is fundamentally rooted in a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This relationship is not merely about adhering to moral standards or accumulating knowledge, but involves a deep, transformative connection with God. According to the teachings of Jesus, the good life is achieved by surrendering one's will to God and allowing His presence to guide and shape one's existence. This is vividly illustrated in the Gospel of John, where Jesus emphasizes that eternal life and true fulfillment come from believing in Him and following His teachings. Christians believe that the good life is characterized by experiencing God's peace and mercy, even amidst trials and suffering, and by living in a way that reflects God's love and grace. Additionally, the Christian good life involves generosity and selflessness, as Jesus taught that true happiness and fulfillment come from giving rather than receiving. Ultimately, the good life for Christians is about living in restored relationship with God, walking in His ways, and glorifying Him in all aspects of life.
The Dalai Lama seeks to remind us that our fundamental human spirituality transcends religious boundaries: "More fundamental than religion is our basic human spirituality. We have a basic human disposition towards love, kindness and affection, irrespective of whether we have a religious framework or not."
The Ubuntu philosophy emphasizes that one's humanity is inextricably linked to recognizing the humanity in others. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu described it, "A person with Ubuntu is open and available to others, affirming of others...based from a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished." Ubuntu conveys the interconnectedness and mutual caring that defines our shared human essence.
Rumi, the 13th century Persian poet and Sufi mystic, has left an indelible mark on the world with his profound insights and poetic mastery. His words transcend time and culture, resonating with seekers of truth and enlightenment across generations. At the heart of Rumi's teachings lies the concept of the soul's journey. He believed that true joy and fulfillment arise when we align our actions with the yearnings of our soul, as he eloquently expressed: "When you do things from your soul, you feel a river of joy within you." Rumi sought to tell us that our physical existence is but a temporary vessel, and that our true essence lies in the eternal soul, as captured in his words: "I am not this hair, I am not this skin. I am the soul that lives within." Moreover, Rumi's wisdom extended to the realm of personal growth and transformation. He understood that pain and suffering are inevitable parts of the human experience, but he offered a unique perspective: "The cure for pain is the pain." By embracing our pain with courage and self-awareness, we can uncover deeper layers of meaning and ultimately transcend our struggles, emerging stronger and wiser on the other side. Rumi's timeless teachings continue to inspire and guide individuals on their spiritual journeys, reminding us to seek the depths of our souls, embrace life's challenges with grace, and find joy in the present moment.
Despite the challenges and adversities that are inherent to the human condition, we possess an incredible capacity for resilience and growth. As expressed in this powerful quote:"In life, friendships change, divorces happen, people move on, others die. Money and jobs will come and go. Live long enough and your health and body will change. It goes with the territory of being human. The fact that you are still here gives you an advantage. Don't look back. Look straight ahead!!"
In prehistoric times, human life expectancy was estimated to be around 30 years, with high infant mortality rates and dangers from predators, diseases, and lack of medical care. However, as civilization advanced, certain developments paved the way for extended longevity: improved nutrition, sanitation, hygiene practices, and access to clean water, modern medicine, including vaccines, antibiotics, and advanced medical treatments, better living conditions, access to education, and increased awareness about healthy lifestyles have contributed to longer lifespans.
On the other hand, the inescapable truth is that human life remains fragile and can end abruptly at any time. Do some religious belief systems offer protection, or the illusion of protection? Does science offer hope for a longer, healthier life, while at the same time bringing the possibility of swift, global destruction?
Another central theme of humanity is the inherent duality within human nature – our capacity for both light and darkness, creation and destruction. Erich Maria Remarque's novel All Quiet on the Western Front, a depiction of life for men in war, captures this dichotomy: "We have lost all feeling for one another. We can hardly control ourselves when our glance lights on the form of some other man. We are insensible, dead men, who through some trick, some dreadful magic, are still able to run and to kill."
Consider the life of Pat Tillman. After establishing himself as a talented NFL player with the Arizona Cardinals, he walked away from a multi-million dollar contract to enlist in the U.S. Army following the 9/11 attacks. Tillman's decision exemplified his deep sense of duty and patriotism, putting service to his country above personal wealth and fame. Tragically, he made the ultimate sacrifice when he was killed by friendly fire while serving as an Army Ranger in Afghanistan in 2004. Tillman's selfless choice to trade professional athletics for the battlefield demonstrated remarkable courage and conviction. He left behind the comforts of celebrity to fight for the nation he loved, embodying the highest ideals of honor, integrity and sacrifice. Consider also the other countless lives which came to an end during warfare; Stone Age rivalries, Roman wars, the Crusades, Napoleonic Wars, the First and Second World Wars (1.3 million Russians died defending Stalingrad alone), and on and on today.
Even in the face of unimaginable hardship, cruelty, and deprivation, the human spirit possesses an incredible capacity for perseverance and dignity. This notion rings especially true when we look at stories of those who endured the worst atrocities and injustices, yet managed to maintain their humanity against all odds. From prisoners of war to Holocaust survivors to those who overcame unthinkable personal tragedies, their ability to hold on to their values (lines they would not cross) became a lifeline and source of strength. Whether facing personal challenges or struggling against broader systemic injustices, nurturing that "innermost armament of the soul" is what allows the human spirit to emerge intact. It is both a catalyst for resilience and a light that guides us through our darkest hours.
Viktor Frankl was an Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist whose life took an unimaginable turn when he was imprisoned in Nazi concentration camps during the Holocaust. In the face of extreme suffering and dehumanization at Auschwitz and other camps, Frankl made a critical observation - those prisoners who were able to maintain a sense of meaning and purpose were far more likely to survive the harsh conditions. This insight became the foundation for Frankl's logotherapy, a revolutionary form of psychotherapy he developed after being liberated. Rather than focusing solely on reducing symptoms, logotherapy helps individuals discover a sense of purpose by finding concrete meaning in their life experiences, even amidst profound suffering. Frankl's seminal 1946 work, Man's Search for Meaning, outlined key principles like the freedom to choose one's attitude towards unavoidable suffering, and the belief that life holds potential meaning under all circumstances. His harrowing yet insightful personal journey demonstrated the vital role that finding meaning can play as a path to psychological well-being and survival in even the darkest of times.
From one perspective, human life is a fatal condition. Danish philosopher, Soren Kierkegaard, referred to death as our “uncertain certainty” and he urged us to live with authenticity and purpose in the face of life’s uncertainty; to make the most of whatever time is given to us. By meditating daily on our mortality, we can consciously align with our deepest values and live more fully in the time we have, more courageously, more lovingly, more connected with all of life . We can be reminded to live with more gratitude and more vitality for each day we have.
Let's consider the work of Harvard's Dr. Atul Gawande on end-of-life care. He emphasizes the profound impact of palliative care in improving the quality and duration of life for terminally ill patients. Contrary to the common perception that palliative care is synonymous with giving up, Gawande's research and observations reveal that it focuses on understanding patients' priorities and goals, thereby providing care that aligns with their values and desires; what do you want to experience or accomplish in the months left to you?Notably, a study highlighted by Gawande found that patients with end stage metastatic lung cancer who received early palliative care not only experienced better quality of life and cut costs of care by one third, but also lived 25% longer compared to those who received standard aggressive treatments. This counterintuitive finding underscores that less aggressive, patient-centered care can lead to both a better and longer life, challenging the traditional approach of relentless medical intervention at the end of life. Gawande advocates for meaningful conversations between doctors and patients about their wishes and fears, which can lead to more informed and compassionate care decisions, ultimately ensuring a "good life to the very end"
Mahatma Gandhi, the iconic leader of India's independence movement, left an indelible mark on the world with his profound wisdom and unwavering commitment to nonviolence. His quotes resonate across generations, offering timeless guidance on how to live a purposeful and fulfilling life. One of Gandhi's most famous sayings, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others," encapsulates the essence of selflessness and the profound impact it can have on personal growth. By dedicating ourselves to the betterment of others, we discover our true purpose and the inherent joy that comes from making a positive difference. Gandhi's words, "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever," remind us to embrace the present moment while continuously seeking knowledge and personal growth. This balance between living fully in the here and now and cultivating a lifelong thirst for learning is a recipe for a rich and meaningful existence. Perhaps most poignantly, Gandhi's quote, "Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony," underscores the importance of aligning our thoughts, words, and actions. True happiness and fulfillment arise when we live with authenticity, integrity, and congruence between our inner beliefs and outer expressions. Gandhi was assassinated in 1948 at 79 years of age by a Hindu fanatic who believed Gandhi was too accommodating to Muslims.
Martin Luther King Jr. articulated a profound vision for living a life of substance and significance. At its core was the idea that a complete, meaningful life is built upon three integrated dimensions: the individual (inner life), others (service to humanity), and God (spiritual connection). He saw these three elements as an interdependent triangle, with true fulfillment coming from harmonizing personal growth, service to others, and spiritual grounding. A central theme was the power of love - love for oneself, others, and the Divine. King believed our lives find ultimate meaning not through selfish pursuits, but through uplifting humanity with love in action. "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'"His vision challenges us to cultivate our highest selves for the betterment of all, recognizing our interconnectedness and working for human dignity, equality, and justice. It is a blueprint calling us to our highest callings as individuals, members of a global community, and spiritual beings. Tragically, King's life was cut short in 1968 at 39 years of age, when he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, while supporting a sanitation workers' strike, continuing his lifelong mission of advocating for the oppressed and marginalized.
Robert F. Kennedy, younger brother to President John Kennedy, was a prominent American politician and activist who had a deep philosophical outlook on life and our responsibilities as global citizens. Here are some of his most significant quotes touching on the meaning of life and our duties. "The purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things better." Kennedy believed that we all have an obligation to work towards improving the world around us and leaving it in a better state than we found it. "Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.""Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance." He inspired people to persevere in fighting for their ideals, as even small acts of courage can build momentum for meaningful change. In essence, Robert F. Kennedy called on people to focus on what truly enriches human lives, to work towards the betterment of society, and to have hope that our collective efforts can create a more just and fulfilling world. His assassination at 42 years of age, while campaigning for President in 1968, coming just five years after his brother John's death, shocked the nation and the world.
Nelson Mandela's life was a shining example of how one person can make an extraordinary difference in the world. His famous quotes reveal a man driven by purpose, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to human freedom and dignity. "What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived," he said. "It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead." Mandela dedicated himself to fighting apartheid and racial oppression in South Africa, spending 27 years imprisoned before emerging victorious to become the nation's first black president. His quote "It always seems impossible until it's done" captured his ability to see the possible when others saw only barriers. Ultimately, Mandela's legacy rests on his profound understanding that "to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others." His life's work liberated not just his own people, but the human spirit itself. Nelson Mandela passed away in 2013, at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. His life and sacrifices continue to inspire people around the world to fight for freedom, equality, and human rights.
In The Sirens of Titan, author Kurt Vonnegut satirically portrays the idea that the purpose of human existence on Earth, all the evolution/the wars/the dramas of our individual and collective lives, is an elaborate cosmic scheme orchestrated by an advanced alien race solely to provide a stranded space traveler from their planet with a spare part for his spacecraft. The novel implies that instead of seeking a higher purpose as commanded by deities on high, or some imagined external force, true meaning in life can only be found through the simple act of loving those around us in the present moment, regardless of the apparent insignificance or randomness of our existence.
American philosopher Alan Watts said, "The meaning of life is just to be alive. It is so plain and so obvious and so simple. And yet, everybody rushes around in a great panic as if it were necessary to achieve something beyond themselves.""Life is not a problem to be solved, nor a question to be answered. Life is a mystery to be experienced. When you are freed from being out to improve yourself, your own nature will begin to take over." Renowned Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, reinforces this sentiment: "Life is precious as it is. All the elements for your happiness are already here. There is no need to run, strive, search, or struggle. Just be."
Maya Angelou believed "The purpose of life is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well." For some, purpose is found in service, like Mother Teresa's view that it is "to find your mission and fulfill it." Others, like Picasso, see it as discovering and sharing your unique gifts: "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away!" Ultimately, as Kofi Annan stated, "To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there." Marcel Proust said, "We don't receive wisdom; we must discover it for ourselves after a journey that no one can take for us or spare us." Courage is the price life exacts for granting fulfillment. Look to every hardship as a lesson to be learned. Many of the wise have noted, there is no Them, only Us; our task is to imagine making a new richness of Us. And as Krista Tippett said, "Love is perhaps the most difficult task given us, the most extreme, the final proof and text, for which all other work is only preparation." By devoting ourselves to loving others, our communities, and creating something meaningful, as Mitch Albom advised, we can uncover our life's purpose.
Each of us is both a singular and interdependent part of the evolving Universe. Perhaps our purpose is to find our way of connecting to the process of Universal evolution. Seek to make that connection in your individual way. Use love to make that connection. This path will bring both tears and joy, fear and courage, anger and serenity, and it will embed you purposefully and deeply into the unfolding miracle of life in this Universe.
In conclusion, the essence of being human may not lie in any single perspective of the good life, but in the rich tapestry of how we all navigate our individual and collective experiences, struggles, and triumphs, moving humanity forward as the Universe moves forward. We each define the purpose of life through our unique, ever-evolving, lived expressions of what it means to be a human in this world.
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