The Conflict of Instincts and Intellect in Human Behavior
Freedom Essay 4 Instinct v Intellect treatise obvious 🔗
Jeremy Griffith's essay explores the conflict between human instincts and intellect, asserting that this clash underlies the troubled human condition. Griffith emphasizes that many historical thinkers, including Moses, Plato, and Hesiod, recognized the tension between our moral instincts and the emerging conscious mind. He introduces the concept of a "double whammy" effect, where humans face criticism for defying their instincts and subsequently for their angry responses to this criticism. The essay also discusses our cooperative and loving instincts, which have been overshadowed by the perception of a "savage" nature. Griffith argues that understanding this dynamic can lead to healing and transformation of the human experience.
- The essay presents the instinct vs. intellect conflict as key to understanding human behavior.
- Historical figures have acknowledged the moral instincts that clash with human intellect.
- Griffith introduces the "double whammy" effect of instinctual criticism and the resultant anger.
- The essay suggests that recognizing our cooperative instincts can lead to a positive transformation.
What is the main argument of Jeremy Griffith's essay?
Griffith argues that the conflict between human instincts and intellect is the root cause of the troubled human condition, which many historical thinkers have recognized.
How does the "double whammy" effect relate to human behavior?
The "double whammy" effect refers to the criticism humans face for both defying their instincts and for their angry reactions, leading to further psychological distress.
What role do moral instincts play according to Griffith?
Griffith highlights that humans possess cooperative and loving moral instincts that conflict with their conscious mind, contributing to feelings of guilt and insecurity.