Philosophy of Human Nature and Cultural Identity

Defining the Notion of Nature

The notion of nature, in a first approximation, refers to all beings that form the natural universe. These are not produced by man, and nature does not encompass anything artificial, from the galaxy to the human being itself. In a second sense of the term, nature refers to the intrinsic principle or characteristic of a being that distinguishes it from others. For example, it would not be natural for a man to fly through the rapid movement of his arms or to solve a mathematics problem through purely physical instinct.

Human Nature and the Hierarchy of Beings

Inert beings have no movement. Living beings, including all human beings, are part of nature. Inert beings are at the lower links of the natural order. Life represents a movement toward a perfection that inert matter does not possess. At the same time, inert beings possess a very relative unity. In living beings, the drive appears as a more consistent constitutive principle.

Aristotelian Perspectives on Life

Unity implies immanence, which remains in the living being after an action. It has various faculties: nutritive, sensitive, and intellective. According to Aristotle, beings "possess all, some alone, and others in some order, only one of them." Aristotle marked clear differences between human beings and other living things:

• The human being can know intellectually through language. While animals also use language, they do not possess intellectual knowledge.
• Human beings can transform nature and adapt it to their needs; they possess the capability for scientific knowledge and technical application.
• Humans are able to approach reality through emotional literacy.
• The human being is a metaphysical being; they know and are aware that they know, and they suffer and are aware of that suffering.
• Humans have a corporeal manifestation; the body allows them to be open to endless possibilities.

In short, the human being is part of nature, but its characteristics make it essentially different from other things and beings.

The Cultural Fact and Social Models

The cultural fact is not an isolated event; it exists within a specific social model. Culture feeds off society, as it is not possible to have a culture without a society, or vice versa. This relationship gives rise to narrow yet endless possibilities that characterize the cultural and the plural.

Diversity and Philosophical Reflection

Total homogeneity of culture does not seem possible. Among other reasons, culture is attached to a specific space and time. This differentiation is a positive element that preserves culture through plurality and diversity. Cultural mixtures and peaceful coexistence show the rich character and openness of man, but emerging issues related to cultural diversity urgently need philosophical reflection.