Who said that, ‘Man is a social animal’? ?
Aristotle, the Greek philosopher writes "Man is a social animal. He who lives without society is either a beast or God". Thus, man is by nature a social animal. He is born in society lives in society and dies in society. Society is indispensable for man. Man cannot live as man, without society. Isolation from society is regarded as a punishment. Solitary life is unbearable for him. Social life is necessary for man. The instinct for some form of social life is innate in human being. Professor Park says, "Man is not born human but to be made human". Man can be called social animal for the following reasons:
1) Man is social by nature:
Human nature is such that it cannot but live in society. Man's nature impels him to live in society. The human child is endowed with some latent capacities. Human qualities like capacity to learn language, enquire and think, play and work ,help or harm others, etc. are developed in human society only. These capacities grow through social interaction with others. One cannot develop into a normal person in isolation. There are eminent sociologist like Maciver and others who have cited a number of cases. Studies. These case studies show the fact that man develops human qualities only in society.
(i) The case of Kasper Houser:
Kasper Hauser, a young German boy, was isolated from all kinds of human contact when he was a small child. He lived in isolation in the forest of Nuremberg till he reached the age of seventeen. He was brought out form the forest in 1928 and was taken to the city of Nuremberg. It was found that he could neither walk nor talk properly. He simply muttered a few-meaningless phrase. He could not distinguish between inanimate and animate objects after his death, the post-mortem. Report revealed that his mental development was not normal In spite of his subsequent education be could never become a normal man.
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Who said that, ‘Man is a social animal’? ?
Who said that, ‘Man is a social animal’?
The phrase "Man is a social animal" was first stated by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. Aristotle was one of the most influential thinkers in the history of Western philosophy and his statement about man being a social animal is a fundamental concept in his philosophy.
Explanation:
Aristotle's concept of social nature:
According to Aristotle, human beings are naturally inclined to live in social groups and engage in social interactions. He believed that the essence of human nature is found in the relationships and interactions individuals have with one another. Aristotle argued that humans are not solitary creatures, but rather social beings who thrive in communities.
Human nature:
Aristotle believed that humans have certain innate qualities and characteristics that make them naturally social. He argued that humans possess rationality and the ability to communicate, which are essential for social interactions. Aristotle believed that human society is built on the foundation of shared values, cooperation, and the pursuit of common goals.
The importance of social connections:
Aristotle emphasized the significance of social connections and the role they play in human well-being. He believed that individuals cannot fully develop their potential or achieve happiness in isolation. According to Aristotle, true fulfillment can only be attained through meaningful social relationships and active participation in the community.
Implications:
Aristotle's concept of humans as social animals has far-reaching implications. It highlights the importance of social institutions, such as family, friendship, and political communities, in shaping human behavior and fostering individual growth. It also implies that humans have a natural inclination to seek companionship and establish social bonds.
Contemporary relevance:
Aristotle's concept of humans as social animals remains relevant in contemporary society. It underscores the significance of social connections, empathy, and cooperation for the well-being of individuals and the functioning of communities. It also emphasizes the need for individuals to actively participate in social and civic life to achieve a sense of fulfillment.
In conclusion, the statement "Man is a social animal" was first made by Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher. He argued that humans are naturally inclined to live in social groups, engage in social interactions, and find fulfillment through meaningful relationships. This concept has profound implications for understanding human nature and the importance of social connections in contemporary society.
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