Ethics, intelligence and the progress of culture and society

Ethics, intelligence and the progress of culture and society

Cultural and social prosperity has historically been driven by science, philosophy, and art, but also by political stability and freedom. However, not every utopian idea leads to well-being. In this essay, we explore how ethics and intelligence contribute to progress, analyzing the role of morality, social incentives, and philosophical doubt in the evolution of prosperous societies. Continue reading Ethics, intelligence and the progress of culture and society

A vision about ethics and morality based on science. Some reflections.

A vision about ethics and morality based on science. Some reflections.

Sam Harris’ book The Moral Landscape argues that morality should be based on the well-being of conscious beings and that science can objectively determine which actions contribute to this well-being. Harris rejects moral relativism and claims that we already know enough about the brain and its relationship with the world to identify correct answers regarding morality. However, criticisms from philosophical objectivism argue that happiness is not the standard of morality but its consequence and that rational values are the true ethical foundation. The essay suggests that reward, rather than mere happiness, is the fundamental criterion of morality, highlighting self-esteem as the central axis of human well-being. Additionally, it discusses how morality could apply even to artificial intelligences with reward patterns, regardless of their subjective consciousness. Continue reading A vision about ethics and morality based on science. Some reflections.

The Master and the Common Man in the Tao Te Ching – Some Reflections

The Master and the Common Man in the Tao Te Ching – Some Reflections

This essay explores the concepts from the Tao Te Ching regarding the Master and the common man, highlighting the difference between acting naturally and selflessly versus seeking results with selfish intentions. It reflects on how the conscious pursuit of virtues like justice or power can detract from the authenticity of human actions. The importance of balancing consciousness and unconsciousness in behavior is also discussed, emphasizing how naturalness can influence excellence while acknowledging the need for harmony between these aspects to promote well-being and authenticity. Finally, it analyzes how conscious expectations can affect happiness, suggesting a life more aligned with the Tao as a path to fulfillment. Continue reading The Master and the Common Man in the Tao Te Ching – Some Reflections

The Role of False Hierarchies in Self-Esteem

The Role of False Hierarchies in Self-Esteem

he essay examines how false hierarchies negatively impact self-esteem and happiness. It highlights that these hierarchies, based on factors like status, sacrifice, or material achievements, do not contribute to real well-being. Instead, it proposes a definition of self-esteem centered on personal satisfaction derived from cultivating skills useful for facing life. It critiques the pursuit of superiority in creative or professional activities, emphasizing that such hierarchies generate dissatisfaction, envy, and unhealthy relationships. Ultimately, it underscores that true self-esteem is independent of social or professional status and is based on internal rewards from personal development. Continue reading The Role of False Hierarchies in Self-Esteem