Human Nature Essay -- essays research papers

Hu while nature is the egotistical behaviours that drive the human race to be creative and inquisitive. Although some philosophers may disagree with the validity of this statement, others such as Aristotle, John Stuart Mill and Thomas Hobbes would believe it to be true. After examining the beliefs of these philosophers and using real-life examples to rebut the beliefs of those who disagree, mans true nature of curiousity, creativity and egotismishness is all the way evident. Once inspecting the philosophical beliefs of Thomas Hobbes, Aristotle and John Stuart Mill, humans creative, inquiring and self-indulgent nature seems indisputable. Thomas Hobbes was correct in saying that self-interest is mans true nature. He spoke the truth when he described man as an aggressive, greedy, competitive, anti-social and vain (Gini- Newman et al. 28) species. Everyday, man demonstrates this nature as he whole kit and caboodle steadfastly to make money so that he peck indulge in the life of lux ury and opportunity that he trusts. He then donates to harmonic organizations so that he does not have to suffer from feelings of guilt for not sharing his wealth with those less fortunate. Even humans creativity and desire for knowledge illustrate our races egotistical nature. Aristotle once said that all men by nature desire knowledge. (Gini- Newman et al. 26) John Stuart Mill later said that no intelligent human being would consent to be a fool. (Gini- Newman et al. 26) Both of these philosophers were correct in their observations. human is an incredibly intelligent human being. He can think abstractly and develop unique ideas and theories. However, mans creative ideas and broad range of knowledge all contribute to his self-interest. Man prides himself on knowledge. His cerebral endeavors build his self esteem and ego. He feels proud and worthy when he invents something. Although many human being use their innovative nature to improve the fiber of life for others, their inte ntions argon always exalt by their innate desires to feed their selfish nature. The selfish desires of man and his needs for creativity and knowledge of self are difficult to conflict. Although philosophers such as Joseph Butler, Mengzi and Siddhartha Gautama have expressed different beliefs on this issue, there are many examples that challenge the soundness of... ...deavors, I notice the self interest that lies beneath them. I realize the self-assurance that I gain by being knowledgeable and I y soak up for the praise I put one over when I create a masterpiece. Even when I help others, by donating money to charitable organizations for example, I am being selfish because my actions are inspired by my personal desires to alleviate my feelings of guilt and sympathy. When I reflect on my life, I often feel ashamed of my self-centeredness. Unfortunately, this is my nature. I can try to witness it, but I can not change it. The writer, Alfie Kohn, was correct when he noted the negati ve connotation on the expression, I am only human. (Gini- Newman et al. 43) Mans creative and curious nature does make him distinct from all others however, he truly is a selfish specimen. Everything man does, from working hard to earn a degree to finding a cure to save the lives of others, is aimed to fulfill his personal desires. Although philosophers may disagree on the true nature of man, it is difficult to dispute his selfishness as a species because there is so much evidence that prove him to be exactly this.