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How We Define Ourselves as Humans

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How We Define Ourselves as Humans
How do we define ourselves as Humans?

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September 10, 2009

This paper discusses what it means to be human, and the importance of the human’s responsibilities in life. It is important to fulfill the responsibilities as humans, and to explore all of the options and possibilities that the human’s short life has to hold. Plato saw man's true nature as rational and believed that civilized society must be organized, and civilized life conducted according to rational principles. Plato and Russell stated that to be human is to wonder and explore the intellectual possibilities of life. I believe that this is the correct philosophy on life, and the human race should wish to explore all of their intellectual possibilities and responsibilities. Plato once said, “Human behavior flows from three main sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge.” It is essential to understand why humans are here on earth, and what their responsibilities are. Humans desire to be healthy, happy and to have freedom. Russell said "happiness of mankind should be the aim of all actions". Humans use their emotions to express ones desire and to show others what they want and who they are. Humans use knowledge to live out their life goals and fulfill their responsibilities. I believe that Plato and Russell were correct in their statement, because to be human should be to explore all the possibilities that there are in the world. What would the world be if we did not try to understand life, and to make the most of oneself? Since the beginning of civilization, man has always been provoked and motivated by the need to make progress and development. This necessity has led to great advancement in technology and how the human race lives day to day. If humans did not have this motivation, they might all be cavemen living outdoors hunting for food and water. What would the earth be like if Thomas Edison was no motivated to create the light bulb? What

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