One particular programme that I happened to listen to today, stressed on the rational element of man. Or rather spoke of human being as a irrational animal, in contrast to Aristotle's 'rational animal'. This is based on the proved scientific theory that most human beings use only a minimal portion of our intellectual ability, our brain. The vast majority of the brain's potential remains untapped. Moreover, the human being today can predict with greater accuracy the consequences of a failure than a success. This prompts the speaker to propose that rather than improve the quality of our reasoning or our rationality (which we have not really improved for ages, in spite of some progress), we should focus on creating systems and patterns which will help us cope with our failures and weaknesses - something we have engaged in since evolution of society. So invest greater in technology, data production and analysis, ... and perhaps artificial intelligence too, which will complement the 'weak' rationality we human beings are satisfied/blessed with.
However I disagree with the idea that it is better to focus on complementary systems which tend to reduce the negative impact of our failed reasoning than on improving rationality itself.
Though very subtle, the emphasis should be to view that what we strive for. While it is easy to argue that what we create is basically to supplement what we lack, a better option would be to see our invention(s) as increasing our possibilities of ways in which we can do things differently.
However I disagree with the idea that it is better to focus on complementary systems which tend to reduce the negative impact of our failed reasoning than on improving rationality itself.
- Going further that line, will bring us to a time when we trust the system rather than our own rational ability. Too disastrous for other aspects of life and living.
- This notion, takes for granted that rationality is our greatest and most important defining element of humanity. It is a major characteristic but not the only one. The human person is a combination of various elements.
- Rather than remedy the situation, it would be more proper to prevent the situation needing a remedy! (The Salesian Preventive system rather than remedial system).
Though very subtle, the emphasis should be to view that what we strive for. While it is easy to argue that what we create is basically to supplement what we lack, a better option would be to see our invention(s) as increasing our possibilities of ways in which we can do things differently.
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