We have evolved a much more complex ability to predict future events than other species. This gives us a unique possibility for taking on a proactive role in improving the world for all species.
Without empathy each human being is isolated from social experience. Empathy is a prerequisite for communication, and for achieving peaceful and stable social relations. And hence for achieving the full potential of each human being.
We cannot have finite or objective knowledge of the world. Knowledge comes from interpreting sensory input in relation to previous interpretations of sensory input and to a system of assumptions about the world based on those interpretations. Truth therefore does not exist.
Through language we have access to the experiences and interpretations of others. This allows us accumulate knowledge between individuals and across generations.
Self interest guides our actions, combined with empathy we can extrapolate our interests to understand the interests of others in our group. Sometimes sacrificing some of our own resources improves the overall balance and moves the species closer to the highest potential good.
Self interest guides our actions, combined with empathy we can extrapolate our interests to understand the interests of others in our group. Sometimes sacrificing some of our own resources improves the overall balance and moves the species closer to the highest potential good.
Through language we have access to the experiences and interpretations of others. This allows us accumulate knowledge between individuals and across generations.
We cannot have finite or objective knowledge of the world. Knowledge comes from interpreting sensory input in relation to previous interpretations of sensory input and to a system of assumptions about the world based on those interpretations. Truth therefore does not exist.
Without empathy each human being is isolated from social experience. Empathy is a prerequisite for communication, and for achieving peaceful and stable social relations. And hence for achieving the full potential of each human being.
We have evolved a much more complex ability to predict future events than other species. This gives us a unique possibility for taking on a proactive role in improving the world for all species.
If you understand a storm, you can create lightning rods and early warning systems. If you understand a thug, you can anticipate their tactics and needs -- work to undo their need or capacity to cause harm.
Even when serious problems are a result of human activity, there is no reason to be misanthropic. Very few people are so selfish that they feel no obligation to contribute to this world. Those who seem so may just be in denial: holding onto beliefs that have become obsolete.
We can only establish our ideas of truth based on our inherently fallible senses. It doesn't accomplish anything to pretend we know more than we do, but "absolute" truth is also trivial: it can't affect us beyond our senses.
The world isn’t as simple as it looks. The mind expects bright lines and clear definitions, but nature is variable. In a world of exceptions, humans in particular are exceptional.
Some corporations run entirely on their ability to get you to consume their unhealthy products. They are devoted full time to distracting you from a better life. Enjoy what you like, but don’t get sucked in.
Secular people generally don’t connect to communities the way believers often do, so here’s your reminder. It’s natural and healthy to be part of a group that cares about you.
Because humans' animal instinct is insecure and causes us to try and "save up" for something later. This keeps us from discovering how much we already possess.
Our ability to empathize is a biological gift to our species. Evolution taught us to feel each others' pain and revel in each others' joy. Empathy can guide to understanding. It will tell us how to behave. It will tell others how to behave towards us.
The pursuit and acceptance of knowledge is a pathway to growth. Knowledge can build upon itself. Knowledge and understanding extinguish irrational fears. It will be the core building block of our future growth as a species.