Board index Specific Bible verses, texts, and passages Genesis

The beginning of the covenant; Faith vs. Faithlessness

Genesis 1:26 - What makes human unique?

Postby Very sure » Sun May 06, 2018 6:12 pm

As we learn more about animal intelligence and psychology, what is still special about humans from a religious perspective?
Very sure
 

Re: Genesis 1:26 - What makes human unique?

Postby jimwalton » Tue Jun 26, 2018 7:23 am

A variety of scholars from several fields still seem to think humans are unique, which would play into our thoughts from a religious perspective.

- We can remember (as in history and culture): We have cultures and ways of transmitting information. This comes from Marvin Minsky, AI pioneer, MIT.
- We can reason with one another. This comes from Daniel Dennett, a cognitive scientist and philosopher (Dennett's a self-described atheist).
- Humans have a unique ability to imitate desire. Animals can imitate behavior, but they don't imitate desire. This comes from Warren Brown, neuroscientist.
- The capacity to worship. This comes from Craig Hazen, Christian university professor.
- Humans are the only creatures in the universe who ask why. This comes from Loren Eiseley, Anthropologist, educator, philosopher, and natural science writer.

So, according to current-day science and philosophy, that's what seems to be special about humans. From a religious perspective, I can subscribe to all of these answers.


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