Self and Transcendence
Essays in the Philosophy of Humanism February 18, 2016 DOI: 10.1558/eph.v23i2.27504 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis essay invites readers into a dialogue about shared humanity. It starts by describing the human self through a naturalistic explanation of human nature, drawing on two characterizations of humanism. It then explores the meaning of freedom and equality, and suggests ways to transcend selfishness, fear, and uncertainty common to the human condition. The essay concludes by proposing how meaningful dialogue can arise from the common conceptual ground of our shared humanity.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Argues that shared humanity provides a conceptual ground for meaningful dialogue, and that freedom, equality, and transcending selfishness and fear are central to this endeavor. |
Abstract
This essay is a meditation on our shared humanity. By necessity it is a monologue, a statement largely in a single voice, advocating a particular point of view; nevertheless, what is written here humbly is offered as an invitation to enter into a dialogue. The essay begins with an description of the human self in terms of a naturalistic explanation of human nature, as suggested by two different characterizations of humanism. It then continues, moving from potential to informed practice, first by considering the meaning of freedom and equality and then by suggesting how we may transcend the selfishness, fear, and uncer-tainty that are all too common elements of the human condition. The essay concludes by suggesting how we all may enter into meaningful dialogue with one another from the common conceptual ground that is our shared humanity.