Steven Pinker: Human nature in 2013
Economist Impact Events・17 minutes read
The discussion highlights how historical ideologies like communism sought to alter human behavior through property relations but resulted in violence, with Steven Pinker emphasizing that excessive moralization rooted in our evolutionary past leads to conflict rather than resolution. Pinker suggests that focusing on reducing moralization and understanding individual traits could foster societal progress, as seen in evolving attitudes toward issues like homosexuality and the complexities of human nature.
Insights
- The text emphasizes that historical ideologies like communism attempted to reshape human behavior through changes in property relations, which often led to destructive outcomes. Steven Pinker argues that understanding human nature through evolution reveals that excessive moralization can incite violence, as many conflicts, including the Israeli-Palestinian issue, are rooted in moralistic motivations rather than material concerns, suggesting that reducing moralization could foster societal progress.
- Pinker also highlights the complexity of moral senses influenced by social norms and authority, leading to violence over benign behaviors, and critiques the romanticized view of evolutionary traits. While acknowledging a genetic basis for homosexuality, he notes that its evolutionary advantages are unclear, reflecting a broader shift in attitudes toward acceptance among younger generations, contrasting with older views shaped by beliefs about its origins.
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Recent questions
What is human nature?
Human nature refers to the inherent characteristics, instincts, and behaviors that define humans as a species. It encompasses both physical and mental attributes shaped by millions of years of evolution. Understanding human nature involves examining how these traits influence our actions, social interactions, and moral judgments. Researchers, like Steven Pinker, emphasize that humans are moralizing beings, driven by instincts to judge and enforce principles, which can sometimes lead to conflict and violence. The complexity of human nature is further highlighted by the interplay of social norms, authority, and individual experiences, making it a rich field of study in psychology and sociology.
How does moralization affect violence?
Moralization can significantly contribute to violence by intensifying conflicts over non-material issues. When individuals or groups hold strong moral beliefs, they may feel compelled to act against those they perceive as violating these principles, leading to violent outcomes. Pinker argues that many violent acts, including homicides, stem from moralistic motives rather than material gain. This moral sense is complex and can be influenced by societal norms and authority figures, often resulting in disproportionate responses to perceived moral transgressions. By understanding the role of moralization in human behavior, we can better address the roots of violence and seek more effective conflict resolution strategies.
What are the implications of genetic traits?
Genetic traits play a crucial role in shaping human characteristics, including physical attributes and certain behaviors. Recent advancements in genome sequencing have revealed that many traits, such as baldness, are influenced by multiple genes, complicating our understanding of genetic inheritance. This complexity raises important questions about how traits are passed down and their implications for individual identity. Additionally, the discussion around genetic traits extends to behaviors like homosexuality, which has a genetic basis but poses questions regarding its evolutionary advantages. Understanding these genetic influences can help us navigate societal attitudes and foster acceptance of diverse human experiences.
How can we resolve moralized conflicts?
Resolving moralized conflicts requires a shift in focus from rigid moral positions to a more pragmatic approach that emphasizes human flourishing and compromise. Pinker suggests that excessive moralization often hinders effective conflict resolution, as seen in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where sacred values prevent meaningful dialogue and compromise. By reducing the intensity of moral judgments and prioritizing shared human interests, societies can create environments conducive to negotiation and understanding. This approach encourages individuals to look beyond their moral certainties and consider the broader implications of their actions, ultimately leading to more peaceful coexistence and conflict resolution.
What is the current view on homosexuality?
The current view on homosexuality is evolving, particularly among younger generations who tend to show greater acceptance regardless of beliefs about its origins. While scientific evidence suggests a genetic basis for homosexuality, the evolutionary advantages remain unclear, as it does not directly contribute to reproduction. Attitudes toward homosexuality often vary by age, with older individuals more likely to view it as a choice or influenced by environmental factors. This generational shift reflects broader societal changes in understanding and accepting diverse sexual orientations, highlighting the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that respects individual identities and experiences.
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Summary
00:00
Understanding Human Nature and Moralization's Impact
- The discussion centers on human nature, emphasizing that historical ideologies, like communism, aimed to reshape human behavior through altered property relations, leading to destructive outcomes.
- Recent research examines human nature through the lens of millions of years of evolution, focusing on both physical and mental development, with Steven Pinker as a key figure in this field.
- Pinker highlights the growing understanding of humans as moralizing beings, driven by instincts to judge others and enforce universal principles, which can lead to violence.
- He argues that excessive moralization contributes to violence, citing that many homicides stem from moralistic motives rather than material gain, as seen in historical atrocities.
- The moral sense is complex, influenced by authority, social norms, and purity, often leading to violence over non-harmful behaviors, such as consensual relationships or artistic expression.
- Pinker suggests that reducing moralization and focusing on maximizing human flourishing could lead to societal progress and conflict resolution, particularly in highly moralized disputes.
- He discusses the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, noting that sacred values prevent compromise, making financial incentives ineffective in resolving violence.
- Pinker shares insights from his genome sequencing, revealing that traits like baldness are influenced by multiple genes, complicating the understanding of genetic inheritance.
- He critiques the romanticization of evolutionary traits, arguing that while some aspects of human nature can enhance happiness, others, particularly regarding violence, require modern solutions.
- The conversation concludes with a call for individual treatment over group averages in discussions of gender differences, advocating for rationality and fairness in workplace equality.
15:50
Genetics and Evolving Attitudes Toward Homosexuality
- Scientific evidence suggests a genetic basis for homosexuality, yet its evolutionary advantage remains unclear, as it does not contribute to reproduction, raising questions about human nature and acceptance.
- Attitudes toward homosexuality are shifting, with younger generations showing acceptance regardless of beliefs about its origins, while older individuals' views often depend on whether they see it as innate or a choice.
