Understanding Nature, Humanity, and Culture
The Concept of Nature
The term “nature” encompasses all living beings that constitute the universe. These beings are considered natural because they are not created by humans. Another definition of nature refers to the intrinsic principle that characterizes and distinguishes one being from another. This principle allows beings to act in a specific way by nature.
Human Nature
Humans are part of nature, existing within it as an element. However, this is a simplified explanation. Nature includes both living and nonliving things. Living beings are not inert. We all belong to nature, but according to Aristotle, humans are a link below inert matter throughout nature.
Inert Beings
Inert beings possess a relatively simple unity of being. This unity involves immanence, which is something that remains within a living creature after an action. Immanence leads to varying degrees of perfection in living beings. These grades are based on form. Living beings have different faculties: nutritive, sensitive, and intellective.
Differences Between Humans and Other Living Things
- Humans can know intellectually.
- Humans use language differently from other beings.
- Humans have the capacity for scientific knowledge.
- Humans experience reality through emotional knowledge.
- Humans are metaphysical beings.
- Humans have a corporeal manifestation.
Human nature is defined by these features, which differentiate humans from other things and beings.
The Cultural Fact
Culture is not an isolated event; it contributes to a specific social model. Culture and society are linked because society cannot exist without culture. Human beings need to live in society, and society cannot exist without culture. This relationship gives rise to a plural fact. There is no single culture, as every human is different.
Culture and Society
Culture is relative to a specific space and time. Total homogenization of culture does not seem possible. Efforts to maintain cultural differences aim to preserve the positive elements of each culture, while avoiding ethnocentrism.
Modern Society and Cultural Diversity
In modern society, immigration is creating a new social fact: the existence of various cultures in small geographic areas. This has enriched human experience and fostered greater openness. Emerging issues of cultural diversity require urgent philosophical reflection. Culture is a symbolic manifestation, historical, and involves education and learning. Culture must be organic.
Cultural Relativism
The thesis of cultural relativism is that all cultures have equal value, and therefore, none should be judged by another. If the cultural manifestations of a society do not contradict human dignity, every culture has a positive value, and there should be no objection to them.
Limitations of Cultural Relativism
Radical cultural relativism can lead to the suppression of ethical standards, resulting in social and personal nihilism and psychological issues. Cultural relativism should not be extrapolated to other areas of human reality, particularly ethics. It does not imply moral relativism.
Ethical Considerations
Historically, practices like slavery were considered lawful in many cultures, but they are contrary to human dignity and therefore reprehensible from an ethical standpoint.