Introduction
The main problem of the argument presented in the articles is that human being is the only specie that finds it hard to be a specie. Human beings uniquely ask human questions about their true nature and image. In these two articles, Lipson presents an insightful analysis of possible answers about what it means to be human. In his analysis, the writer seeks the objective and empirical category of knowledge in the science of human nature, a shift from the more speculative and theoretical methodologies. This is what he calls post–Newtonian or modern theories of human nature and is a sympathetic approach to those who desire to take back the study of human nature through an analysis of existing knowledge.
Main Body
His focus on the Post-Newtonian theories of the biological aspect of human nature adopts a wide range and systematic approaches. He draws his analysis from vast theoretical bases not included in past literature on human nature. However, he includes comprehensive discussions of past theories of Lorenz, Darwin, the cultural materialism of Marvin Harris, feminism, and non-self theories from de la Mettrie to Daniel Dennett. The basis of his analysis focuses on the analysis of each theory to place human beings in their right position in the world.
His attempt is to go beyond the confines of the above theories and extend the knowledge on human nature through a valuable critique of each theory. In this context, he is largely successful in presenting a set of imaginative blueprints based on the empirical category of knowledge. The writer posits that analysis of the twelve theories of human nature will lead to varied understandings and generate questions. However, in the analysis of the text, Lipson emphasizes the meaning of human being. To expand the scope of his analysis, he engages in the general question in dispute – “the extent to which biology reveals who we are and what we are” (Lipson, 14).
Based on the analyses of Darwin, Lorenz, Freud, and socio-biology, the writer argues that no single theory has the general assent in the study of human nature. An insightful understanding of all aspects of human beings, as “specie” will involve a critical dissection of a wide range of pre and post-Newtonian theories. Despite offering a comprehensive analysis of the limitations of the above theories in examining “what we are and who we are”, Lipson concludes that he does not imply that effective response to the questions on human beings cannot be achieved. In his analysis, “the extreme socio-biological claim that essentially all of our behaviour is driven, directly or indirectly, by naturally selected reproductive strategy does seem difficult to defend” (Lopson, 17). In an insightful attempt to understand human beings through the feminism theory, the author argues, “a serious critique of feminism would probe and possibly challenge the alleged transparency and simplicity of power” (Lopson, 11).
Conclusion
In summary, it is discerned from the readings that despite adopting a narrow approach in gaining insights into human nature and incorporating the analysis of Lorenz, Darwin, the cultural materialism of Marvin Harris, feminism and non-self theories from de la Mettrie to Daniel Dennett theories, no theory can offer a comprehensive and genuine analysis of human nature. However, despite the fact that many varied opinions are likely to be generated, the author remains optimistic that different approaches could present complete responses to the underlying questions.
Reference
Lopson, Peter. Theories of Human Nature. Chicago. Broadview Press. 2006.