Human Reason and Its Dimensions: From Aristotle to Contemporary Thought
Human Reason and Its Dimensions
Value Feelings
Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle (fourth century BC) believed that human beings are driven by both intelligence and desire. He argued that the human condition is not solely rational but also emotional. We are naturally inclined towards learning and possess desires, emotions, and feelings.
Similarly, in the philosophy of early Christianity, Saint Augustine of Hippo (4th-5th century) emphasized the importance of love. He believed that love is a fundamental human drive and that it connects us to the divine.
In the 18th century, moral sense philosophers, particularly Adam Smith, highlighted the role of sympathy in human morality. They argued that our capacity for empathy and compassion forms the basis of our moral judgments.
Philosopher David Hume contended that reason alone cannot motivate behavior. He believed that passions are the driving force behind our actions, while reason serves as their guide.
Immanuel Kant, in contrast, argued that reason is capable of motivating action. However, he also acknowledged the significance of moral feelings, such as respect.
20th-century philosopher Xavier Zubiri proposed that human beings possess an”intelligence sense” suggesting that feeling and intelligence are intertwined.
Cordial Reason
Humans do not rely solely on rational arguments to discern truth and justice. Our emotions and feelings also play a crucial role in shaping our understanding and guiding our decisions. They help us prioritize information and make sense of the world around us.
The traditional dichotomy between reason and emotion is misleading. Reason does not operate in isolation but interprets and expands upon the insights provided by our emotions.
Personhood
Boethius (4th century) defined a person as an individual substance of a rational nature.
Kant viewed persons as free and autonomous beings capable of creating their own moral principles.
Personalism, a philosophical movement initiated by Emmanuel Mounier, emphasizes the centrality of the person as both an individual and a social being.
Being a Person and Gain
Mounier’s personalist philosophy highlights several key aspects of personhood:
- Existence-incarnated
- Communications
- Liberty-conditioned
- Commitment
- Capacity-critical-eminent dignity
- Near-friendliness
Human Consciousness
Human consciousness has two primary functions: self-awareness and the maintenance of a continuous sense of self over time.
Difference Between Humans and Animals (Aristotle)
- Logos: Aristotle believed that humans possess”logos” the ability to reason, use language, and engage in abstract thought. This distinguishes us from animals.
- Social Dimension: Logos enables humans to live in societies, communicate with each other, and establish shared understandings.
- Moral Dimension: Logos also allows for moral reasoning, deliberation, and the pursuit of what is good.
Rationalities and Reason
Immanuel Kant recognized that reason can be employed in various ways, leading to the concept of multiple”rationalities”
Theoretical and Practical Reason
Humans use theoretical reason to pursue truth and practical reason to achieve happiness. Aristotle believed that theoretical reason deals with unchanging truths, while practical reason guides our actions towards achieving our goals.
Practical reason, also known as prudential reason, involves finding a balance between reason and desire to attain happiness.
Historic and Vital Reason
Historic reason recognizes that reason itself is a product of history and culture.
Vital reason, a concept developed by José Ortega y Gasset, emphasizes that reason is an integral part of human life and experience.
Instrumental and Communicative Reason
Instrumental reason focuses on using knowledge and technology to control nature and satisfy human needs. This can lead to a focus on efficiency and utility, sometimes at the expense of ethical considerations.
Communicative reason, on the other hand, emphasizes dialogue, understanding, and consensus-building. It recognizes the importance of communication and shared meaning in human interaction.