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  • Essay / Essay on Human Nature - 942

    The purpose of this essay will be to discuss whether human nature is good or bad, or both good and bad, or neither good nor bad. To facilitate the following discussion, human nature would be defined here as the distinctive characteristics with which we are born, which we tend to have naturally without the influence of external factors. The definition agrees with that of Xunzi, according to which nature is what is given by Heaven: it cannot be learned; it cannot be acquired by effort. This essay will explain that the deepest essence of human nature is self-preservation and reproduction, which cannot be truly classified as good or evil. This is followed by how we diverge in behaving well or badly, an argument against the "good nature theory" and a difference between self-preservation with greed and aggression. It is the deepest essence and biological basis for any species to ensure its survival, the so-called self-preservation, which also constitute human nature. Self-preservation is instinctive to stay alive physically and psychologically. This being integrated into the human psyche, we demand from the external environment all the elements that increase our chances of survival. We need nutrients from food, clothing, shelter, sexual love, and a sense of security. And we would escape the elements that reduce our chances of survival, such as predator attacks, hunger, dehydration and any life-threatening circumstances. Reproduction is another human nature that we must survive for long enough to pass on genes to our offspring. However, these two parts of human nature are neither good nor bad. We usually judge right or wrong based on our behavior. A person's behavior, personality and characteristics are neither naturally good nor bad, but developed through upbringing. Without more......middle of paper......failed by knocking down the guys, we become aggressive. If we have to achieve this by cooperating with fellows, we will. The nature of self-preservation is a completely different concept with aggression and greed having no direct relationship. In conclusion, human nature is self-preservation and reproduction, which is neither good nor bad. We are then developed through education and diverged to behave well or badly. The essence of all human behavior is the desire to survive and pass on genes. Self-preservation can also apply to the people around us. As a result, we learn to cooperate and sometimes sacrifice ourselves to ensure the survival of the species. On the other hand, surviving does not necessarily mean harming or obtaining a greater share of resources than others. Self-preservation and reproduction, as human nature is neutral, without bias toward good or evil..