Human Evolution and the Pursuit of Truth
Humans: Rational Animals
Humans, formerly known as Homo sapiens, are defined by intelligence, reason, imagination, and the ability to speak. While reason was once considered an indisputable truth, unconscious structures influence behavior. Human complexity is shaped by history, not just nature.
Body-Soul Dualism
Humans are composed of a material body and a spiritual soul. Some believe the soul is trapped in the body and reincarnates after death. Others see body and soul as distinct substances.
Mind-Brain Debate
The relationship between brain phenomena and mental states is debated. Reductionist materialism denies the mind’s existence, while behaviorism and functionalism view the mind as functions of the brain.
Human Evolution
Climate change in Africa drove natural selection, favoring bipedalism, increased brain capacity, and hand-brain interaction. Neoteny, learning from new situations, furthered intelligence. These changes led to hominization and humanization.
Culture: Second Nature
Small genetic differences result in significant behavioral changes, amplified by language. Culture fosters knowledge acquisition, language, and sociability. Cultural diversity reflects geographical and historical factors.
- Ethnocentrism: Belief in one’s culture’s superiority.
- Cultural relativism: Denial of the possibility of comparing cultures.
Philosophy and Science
Both emerged as rational alternatives to mythical cosmogony. They seek truth through reason, encompassing theoretical, practical, and metaphysical areas.
The Search for Truth
Aristotle’s correspondence theory states that truth aligns with reality. Realism posits an objective reality graspable by our senses. Idealism suggests reality is subjective. Critical realism acknowledges subjective filtering.
Skepticism and Critical Response
Skepticism doubts certain knowledge, while critical responses defend the existence of truth.
Ethics and Politics
Philosophy seeks a good life through ethics, which connects to politics and social organization.
Language and Knowledge
Referential Conception
Words represent things, with language’s primary function being referential. Truth depends on accurate representation and code usage.
Logical Conception
Focuses on language’s logical structure, emphasizing correct thought and language structures.
Communicative Conception
Advocates for an ideal language to eliminate conflicts, emphasizing semantics and logical syntax.