Hobbies And Interests
Theories/Speculation
The idea that human beings have an inherent sense of right and wrong has been debated since the dawn of our species. It is hotly debated in academic circles, talked about in nearly every religion known to man and discussed at length within the family unit. There are several things to consider when debating this topic.
Theories/Speculation
While people usually find comfort in family, friends, work and extracurricular activities that are inherently good for society, there is a segment that is mentally unstable and prone to violence. Specifically, sociopathic personalities directly contradict the idea that humans are compelled to do good. It is widely believed that this type of personality--sometimes manifesting in violent behavior against other human beings--can not differentiate between'right and wrong behaviors. While it can be debated that the definition of doing good is wildly subjective, I think that most humans can determine quite easily what feels right and what feels wrong. That "gut feeling" is directly linked to our instinct and can be relied on in many situations.
If sociopathic behavior exists in our population, how can we deduce that a sense of right a wrong is an inherent characteristic? Also, what does this say about the nature of evolution in humans? Have we not progressed enough to eliminate this seemingly dangerous and antisocial behavior? Many philosophers have argued that different theories are needed to fully discuss the discourse of right and wrong.
Theories/Speculation
Similarly, the discussion of right and wrong can be compared to the debate between free will and determinism. Again, this is a hotly contested argument in many spheres of our lives, particularly religious. On the one hand, some believe that control over one's path and destiny comes strictly from one's own decisions, intuition and intelligence. On the other hand, some humans think their paths are predetermined; that before they are born a specific plan has be set out for them and it is their decision whether to walk the line.
Theories/Speculation
The argument for free will is persuasive. We are an intelligent species capable of huge industrial, political and economic advances. We continue to evolve intellectually; we continue to develop new ideas and new methods. Humans have created many interesting and exciting innovations. It seems that, more specifically, the American dream is the essence of free will. By working hard, having vision and struggling against all odds, one can achieve his dreams. It is an easy idea to get behind; an idea that leaves each individual in the possession of his or her goals and the ability to accomplish them.
The argument for determinism is wholly different. Often based in religious tenets, determinism often gives humans a purpose and a reason for continuing on. By assuming that a plan is there to be followed, a sense of responsibility is created. The undertone of fate is often that it is "against God's will" to fight a plan that is laid at one's feet. Determinism can offer hope to many. If one is lost, upset and confused about her life, it can be comforting to remember that this is the plan that she has been dealt.
Theories/Speculation
One of the more important debates regarding human nature is the debate between religion and nature. The most recognizable debate is the one between evolution and creation. Charles Darwin created a theory that is widely accepted but that also created a rift between the secular and spiritual lives of humans. On the one hand, many humans feel a certain sense of spirituality when faced with such large quandaries like space, the notion of time and certain unexplainable physical phenomena. On the other hand, many questions have been answered using real natural experiments, and it leads our intellectual side to believe that more discovery and scientific study can eventually answer all major questions.