IX. Mystery, Meaning and Identity ↑
61. Our human natures are mysterious.
Unlike most species of life, our human natures are not determined primarily by genetics. That is, our behaviors are not hardwired into our genes. Instead, our genes prepare us to learn and adapt, not primarily through genetic evolution, but through cultural evolution. In other words, we discover new things, and then share that knowledge with others. It is this ability that has made up the most adaptive species on the planet.
But it is also this lack of a definite identity that sets us on a quest to find out just who we are, and why we are here.
Words from Others on this Topic
Teacher, teach me how to read and write.
You can teach me ’bout biology.
But you can’t tell me what I am living for,
’Cause that’s still a mystery.Teacher, teach me about nuclear physics,
And teach me about the structure of man,
But all your endless calculations
Can’t tell me why I am.
Ray Davies, 1975, from the song “Education”
I’m looking for me;
You’re looking for you.
We’re looking at each other
And we don’t know what to do.They call me the seeker:
I been searchin’ low and high.
I won’t get to get what I’m after
‘Till the day I die.
Pete Townshend, 1970, from the song “The Seeker”