Overview
This lecture explores Enlightenment humanism, the challenges it faces in modern society, and the importance of rationality and shared human values in overcoming global issues.
Enlightenment Ideals and Human Nature
- Enlightenment humanism argues that knowledge can be used to improve human well-being.
- Historically, applying knowledge to improve health, reduce conflict, or extend life was not possible or considered.
- Human beings are not naturally inclined towards Enlightenment values and often revert to older beliefs.
- Examples of backsliding include rejecting scientific findings like vaccines and climate change.
Contemporary Challenges to Enlightenment Values
- Recent events like the war in Ukraine reflect a rejection of humanist ideals, prioritizing glory over human lives.
- Authoritarian and nationalist leaders, as well as populist and identitarian movements, threaten rational, humanistic values.
Game Theory and the Tragedy of the Commons
- Game theory studies rational choices in situations where outcomes depend on others’ actions.
- The "Tragedy of the Commons" occurs when individually rational actions lead to worse outcomes for everyone.
- Climate change is an example: each person acting in self-interest harms the whole group.
- This tragedy can also affect rationality itself, as people prioritize group loyalty over truth, worsening societal divisions.
Progress and the Built-In Advantage of Humanistic Values
- Despite setbacks, civilization tends to progress slowly toward greater rationality and scientific understanding.
- Many previously accepted immoral practices, such as slavery and segregation, have been largely eradicated.
- Humanistic values appeal to common human desires like life, health, and education, transcending group differences.
- Enlightenment humanism, although not intuitive, is defensible in negotiations because it appeals to shared humanity.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Enlightenment Humanism — the belief that knowledge and reason can and should improve human welfare.
- Game Theory — the study of rational decision-making where outcomes depend on others' choices.
- Tragedy of the Commons — a situation where individual self-interest leads to collective harm.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on how Enlightenment humanism applies to current events and personal beliefs.
- Prepare to discuss examples of the tragedy of the commons in everyday life.
- Review key moments of social progress based on rational, humanistic values.