Apocalypticism, Understanding Human Nature
The need to comprehend the humanity continues to gain momentum in the contemporary society. Philosophers and Psychologists continue to analyze the views of human nature to all human beings (Frey 17). Consequently, studies into the nature of human beings have been a part of western philosophical studies for many years. Civilization is a key factor that differentiates human beings from the other species. The depiction of human nature is that of purity and righteousness (Corning 34). The Bible asserts that children though holy, they are still sinners because of the mistakes committed by their ancestors. The Holy scriptures propose that the blood of Jesus is the only cure that can save human beings from their inborn evil. Psychologists, on the other hand, maintain that human nature arises from the surrounding and the upbringing of a child. Jean-Jacques Rousseau claims that the children are born as clean slates and the experiences gained over time imprint themselves and shape their personality (Frey 19). Hence, it is vital to understand that human nature regardless of the cause, varies among people and includes everything that human beings say, do or think.
Individuals' ways of thinking, acting and even expressing their feelings vary with changing situations and occur naturally independent of culture. In other words, human nature is universal and unique to humanity all other factors held constant. Due to the influence of culture, human nature has no manifestation in the natural human environment. For example, most cultures discourage self-centeredness and gluttony (Frey 23).
[...] Overall, it is apparent that human nature is not only a source of norms of conduct but it also presents obstacles or constraints of leading a wonderful life. The aspects of human nature provide a basis for understanding what being human means (Frey 45). As Jean Jacque Rousseau reiterates, human beings do not really know what nature permits them to be. In this case, it is in order to say that human nature allows humanity to explore their feelings, actions and even their way of thinking as situations deem fit. [...]
[...] Being ambitious and dreaming big are also aspects of human nature. All individuals aspire to achieve great things and give meaning to their lives (Frey 41). Most people fail to achieve their objectives in life and instead they opt to settle for less to obtain societal acceptance. In the movie, Dodge's disinterest in insurance is unmistakable, but he has to generate income and insurance is the only available option for him. Even in relationships, most people settle for less because they are alone, and they have to fulfill a social obligation. [...]
[...] Like Dodge, her last ambition is finding contentment and comfort. Penny is looking for a way to rejoin her family in England because it is the only place she thinks she will find happiness (Scafaria). However, she falls in love with Dodge and abandons her earlier desire to spend her last moments with him. It is clear that human beings have intrinsic ambitions, but the expectations of the society inhibit some of them. In dysfunctional societies, individuals go after their dreams without restraints (Corning 54). [...]
[...] This comes from an evaluation of Petersen's life. He is in dating relationship with a girl whom he does not love (Scafaria). She is not in love with a man either and chooses to spend her final days with other people instead of spending them with her husband. This leads to implications on the importance of honesty and the relevance of being honest in living a happy fulfilling life (Frey 37). Due to their lack of honesty, Petersen and his wife Linda are miserable; one can tell that Petersen is miserable by the way he carries himself around. [...]
[...] How we cater for other people defines our nature (corning 43). In the movie 'seeking a Friend for the End of the World,' Safaris highlights how people relate outside a social and cultural concept. When Dodge and Penny meet strangers at a cafe, they treat each other like old friends even getting an invitation for a sexual orgy, though they decline. However, in other circumstance strangers view each other with suspicion probably because of the apocalypse. In other cases, people are only friendly to those that have similar traits or to people that they have an interest in. [...]
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