Human Nature and Ideal Society

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Human Nature and Ideal Society

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Throughout the course of time, many brilliant philosophers have explored the concept of human nature. The question, what motivates humanity has been taken into consideration in the composure of virtually every society. By establishing that premise, many went on to create an ideal society with the intention of developing that thought. In this paper, I will review the thoughts of Plato, Aristotle, Locke, and Marx and show how each theorist's view of human nature is displayed in their own utopia. I will also explain how these theorists's have influenced my own conceptions of human nature, and based on my new enlightened opinions of human nature I will develop my own ideal society.

My original conception of human nature is that man is originally born immoral and self-interested. In spite of this, man is also rational and through life's experience realizes the need to work along with their fellow man in order to progress. I believe that humankind is motivated by egoism and greed, but has the potential to become virtuous through learned behavior. In order to achieve a large amount of what will be fulfilling to the person's needs, they will want to establish relationships with others. By working together, each person is receiving what it is that they need or want. The exchange within that social setting then becomes beneficial to each participating member. By working along with others, progress is also achieved faster and more efficiently. People tend to behave moral and civil while congregating with their peers in order to appeal to others. People realize that by not expressing their direct selfish intentions but rather a polite demeanor people will be more welcoming to t...

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...ant to reflect on the views of such brilliant philosophers in order to acquire an impression of historical strife with government. Despite the fact that the ideal societies created by Plato, Aristotle, Locke and Marx never materialized. Their theories will always be considered to remain as important historical pieces. These ideas have helped to influence governments, and in many cases offered the needs and wants of the people at the time. The democratic government of the United States was established on the theories taught by John Locke, whereas Communism in the former Soviet Union was based upon Karl Marx's theories. In conclusion, I feel that although no man can establish the perfect society, people will continue to envision theoretically, what the most fulfilling civilization for man's existence.

All Quotes came from Original Works From Text Used In The Class

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