This MBA program has been a flabbergasting experience thus far, I never knew there’d be any point where we’d be talking about animals. I know right? you’re also wondering what the hell is he talking about. I’m getting to it I promise.
I’ve been fortunate to learn a lot from one of the courses in this MBA program titled: Nature of Human Beings, and in this course we talk about a vast number of things in regards to human beings, our nature, our relationship with animals, the way we think and why we act the way we do.
The human experience is a complex tapestry of attributes, influenced by both our animalistic instincts and our capacity for rational thought. We possess a duality that defines our nature, but understanding this balance between animality and humanity is no straightforward task. This blog delves into the intricate interplay between our instinctual animality and our rational humanity, exploring the reasons behind our possession of both and their implications for our thoughts, emotions and behaviour.
At the core of our being lies our animality, a reflection of our primal instincts and evolutionary heritage. These animalistic traits are deeply ingrained in our nature, and they play a vital role in our daily lives. They are the source of our most basic needs, such as hunger, thirst, and the instinct to seek shelter. Our animal instincts are responsible for our drive to procreate and ensure the survival of our species. These innate desires are the foundation of our existence and have been hardwired into our DNA over millennia.
In contrast to our animal instincts, our humanity represents the gift of rational thought, a defining characteristic that distinguishes us from other creatures. Our capacity for reason is the foundation of our intelligence, enabling us to analyze, synthesize, and strategize. This remarkable ability allows us to plan for the future, create complex societies, and understand the world on a profound level.
Understanding the complex interplay of animality and humanity has profound implications for our daily lives. It highlights the importance of striking a balance between instinct and reason. While embracing our animality helps us acknowledge our basic needs, desires, and emotions, it’s equally important to harness our humanity by applying rational thought and self-control.
From what I learned so far in the course, the interplay between animality and humanity in the context of human nature is not only a philosophical concept but also a relevant consideration in the business world. In business, our animality manifests through our instincts for survival, competition, and self-preservation. These instincts drive us to seek profits, maximize returns, and secure resources, mirroring our primal drive for survival and procreation.
On the other hand, our humanity, represented by our rational thinking, enables us to plan, strategize, and make informed decisions. It allows us to analyze markets, assess risks, and develop long-term business strategies.
Understanding this balance is essential for business leaders. Acknowledging our animality can help us recognize the cutthroat competition, our desire for growth, and the need to adapt swiftly to market changes. Simultaneously, harnessing our humanity involves using our rationality to make ethical decisions, create innovative solutions, and build strong, collaborative teams.
THE BEGINNING, WHAT’S NEXT?