Human Nature: Mind, Behavior, and Social Dynamics

Philosophical Perspectives on Mind and Reality

Physicalist Reductionism or Identity Theory considers that mental states are neurophysiological states.

Functionalism: Mental processes are not reduced to neurophysiological processes. Instead, a phenomenon is defined by the function it performs or the outcome it leads to.

Property Dualism: This perspective posits the existence of two types of properties (mental and physical). It contrasts with Monism, which considers that humans are formed by a single substance or reality.

Personalism: Claims the unity of the human being as both body and spirit.

Understanding Human Behavior

Defining Behavior

Behavior is the observable way individuals react to reality.

Types of Reactions

• Instinctive Reaction: An identical reaction to a stimulus in all members of a species, based on a genetic pattern.
• Open Answer: A reaction that is not biologically prefixed.

The reasons that give meaning and make the behavior of others comprehensible tend to be mental states of individuals, which are often unobservable.

Phases of Voluntary Human Behavior

1. Deliberation
2. Decision
3. Execution

Key Traits of Human Behavior

• Maladjustment: Due to inherent human needs or deficiencies.
• Plasticity: Human behavior is modelable and malleable.
• Dissatisfaction: Linked to maladjustment and low biological determination.

Characteristics of Human Sociality

Instinctive Indeterminacy

Virtually all animals possess a very complete instinctive determination that functions as an adaptation and reaction mechanism against reality. Human learning is possible thanks to permeability, intelligence, and a social body.

Long Period of Immaturity

While the young of most animals take relatively little time to become self-sufficient adults, the human child is completely helpless and remains so for a long period.

Notable Lack of Physical Specialization

To survive and thrive, humans must group together and engage in teamwork. This is precisely why living in society, even if violent or competitive, is essential.

Social Relationships and Dynamics

Aggression and Violence

Some consider these elements inherent in human nature, viewing the human being as essentially egoistic, seeking only self-benefit and profit. This perspective suggests that competition and rivalry are natural among men.

Sociological Darwinism

A current in evolutionary sociology that considers the change process inherent in every community as a process of civilizational improvement. Societies also evolve, and one of the mechanisms is the struggle for survival among individuals and collectivities. Conflict is considered an indispensable mechanism for the progress of human activity.

External Factors Influencing Behavior

Some authors consider that humankind is less aggressive and not competitive by nature, but rather by necessity.

Socialization and Empathy

Defining Socialization

Socialization is the learning process by which we integrate into the community we are part of. It consists basically of the acquisition and internalization of the rules, principles, and customs of the culture in which we live.

Empathy

Empathy is the ability people possess to put themselves in the role of others and understand their sentiments.

Types of Socialization

• Primary Socialization: Occurs in childhood. It involves the acquisition of patterns and habits of the group and society, often through imitation and the concession of rewards.
• Secondary Socialization: Not exclusive to a given stage of life; it occurs throughout life. It involves re-adaptation to changes in the environment or new circumstances. Similar to primary socialization, it involves communication and the transmission of more explicit knowledge.