LESSON: HUMAN FLOURISHING
Human Flourishing in STS
Introduction
The human person as both the bearer and beneficiary of science and technology, flourishes and finds meaning
in the world that he/she builds.
In the person’s pursuit for good life, he/she may unconsciously acquire, consume and destroy what the world
has to offer, thus it is necessary to reflect on the things that truly matter.
Science and technology must be taken as part of human life that merits reflective and meditative thinking
(Heidegger). It gives meaning to the life of a person making his/her way to the world.
To be able to appreciate the fruits of S & T, they must be examined not only for their function and
instrumentality but also for their greater impact on humanity.
Human Flourishing
Defined as being “good spirited” (Eudaimonia) in the classical Aristotelian notion to describe the
pinnacle of happiness that is attainable by humans.
Components that results to Human flourishing ( Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics)
1. Phronesis
2. Friendship
3. Wealth
4. Power
The ancient Greeks believed that acquiring the qualities (phronesis, friendship, wealth and power) will surely
bring the seekers happiness, which in effect allows them to partake in the greater notion which is called as
“good”.
Changes in the elements of human flourishing through time
What was done by humans?
1. Find means to live more comfortably
2. Explore more places
3. Develop more products
4. Make more money
Eastern and Western concept of human flourishing
Western civilization tends to be more focused on the individual while those of the east are more community-
centric.
The view of the Eastern ones; that community takes the highest regard that the individual should sacrifice
himself for the sake of the community (Chinese Confucian system and Japanese Bushido; both views the
whole is greater than its components)
In conclusion:
A person who has achieved the “ultimate good” would want to serve the community but is brought about upon
deliberation based on values rather than beliefs that the state is greater than him and thus is only appropriate
that he should recognize it as higher entity worthy of service.
Technology as a Mode of Revealing
Heidegger urged people to envision technology as a mode of revealing as it shows so much more about
human person and the world thus bringing forth the truth.
Example:
The truth that the Earth is weeping could be revealed by the information and data taken by modern devices.
Whatever truth is uncovered, it will be something more meaningful and significant than the superficial and
practical use of technology.
3 concepts introduced Heidegger
1. Alethia : unhidden or diclosure
2. Poiesis: bringing forth/truth; making or producing something with a purpose ( Aristotle)
3. Techne: skill; art; craft
Modern Technology
1. Heidegger characterized it as a challenging forth since it is very aggressive in its activity.
2. It challenges nature and demands of its resources that are, forcibly extracted for human consumption and
storage.
