Answer :
The article 'Being Human' examines what it means to be human through four main ideas: uniqueness and complexity, vulnerability and socialness, agency and power to transform, and equality and existential closeness. It reflects on humanity in poetry, human-robot interactions, and advocates for a dignified life that is both individually defined and enriched by social connections. The discourse is connected to practical and policy considerations of living sustainably within a global community.
In the article 'Being Human' by Lorraine Brown and Frances Dooley, a profound exploration of the human condition is conducted. The authors delve into themes such as uniqueness and complexity, vulnerability and socialness, agency and the power to transform, as well as equality and existential closeness. These four main ideas are augmented by reflecting on various dimensions of humanity, such as how humanity is expressed in poetry, the ethical considerations in human-robot interactions, and understanding the human experience as a dignified life that encompasses individual identity and the necessity for social structures.
Engaging with the works of Eva Feder Kittay, Peter Kahn, Carl Rogers, and others, the authors present a multifaceted view of what it means to be human. They pose essential questions like the distinction between being human and being a person, and what the pursuit of a dignified life entails, particularly in relation to the common good and human dignity. Tragic examples from Edward Said and Sally Morgan's lives are used to illustrate the concept of humanity as both an individual characteristic and a relational good, emphasizing the notion that our humanity is truly realized in the context of our relationships with others.
The exploration is not just an academic exercise but ties back to practical implications and policy considerations, urging readers to think about how actions can promote a sustainable and responsible human existence within the larger Earth community.