Can Nature Be the Standard for Human Behavior?

Can Nature Be the Standard for Human Behavior?

Nature has long been regarded as a source of inspiration and guidance for human behavior. From ancient philosophical teachings to modern theories of natural law, the idea that the natural world can serve as a norm for our actions has been explored and debated. In this article, we will examine both ancient and modern perspectives on this topic and discuss the implications for our daily lives.

In ancient times, thinkers like Epictetus emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature. According to Epictetus, living in accordance with nature is an ethical defense against excess and allows us to find order within ourselves. This concept suggests that the highest form of human life is to accept and rediscover this natural order within ourselves.

Similarly, the modern concept of natural law, as articulated by philosophers like Locke and Hobbes, posits that there are inherent rights and principles derived from nature that should guide our behavior. Locke, for example, argued for the natural right to property, suggesting that this concept is deeply rooted in human nature. Hobbes, on the other hand, explored the possibility of a social contract based on human nature, suggesting that our social and political systems should align with our natural inclinations.

While both ancient and modern perspectives offer valuable insights, it is crucial to recognize that intense moments of happiness or spiritual fulfillment are temporary. Whether experienced during a retreat, a yoga practice, or any other occasion, these moments of intense joy eventually come to an end. It is essential to accept this transience and not cling to these experiences, as doing so may prevent us from fully embracing and appreciating our everyday lives.

Returning to our daily routines can often feel mundane and uninspiring compared to these extraordinary moments. However, it is precisely in our everyday lives that we have the opportunity to grow and progress. As Arnaud Desjardins aptly put it, we do not progress despite the challenges of daily life, but rather thanks to them. Each obstacle we encounter is like a step on a staircase, enabling us to reach higher levels of personal development and spiritual growth.

For example, if we have experienced a profound love for all humanity during a moment of intense connection, it is in our daily interactions with our loved ones, colleagues, and neighbors that we can put this love into practice. By embodying this love in our everyday lives, we can continue to cultivate and expand upon that experience. It is important, however, to be mindful of our ego, which may attempt to co-opt and distort our spiritual experiences for its own benefit. We must guard against the ego's desire to claim ownership over our experiences and instead remain focused on the genuine fruits of our spiritual growth.

After a transformative experience, it is crucial to turn inward and listen to our inner being, the Life within us, whatever name we may give it. Only then can we take action based on the insights and transformations that have occurred within us. It is beneficial to deepen our experience internally and allow it to naturally manifest in our daily lives, without forcing or imposing any predetermined agenda. By doing so, we can discover what this deepening and embodiment of our spiritual experiences inspire us to do.

In conclusion, the question of whether nature can serve as a norm for human behavior is a complex and nuanced one. Both ancient and modern perspectives offer valuable insights into this topic. While it is important to appreciate and learn from intense moments of happiness and spiritual connection, it is equally important to embrace and find meaning in our everyday lives. Three actionable pieces of advice for incorporating this understanding into our lives are:

• 1. Embrace the transient nature of intense experiences: Recognize that these moments of joy and connection are temporary and appreciate them for what they are without clinging to them.

• 2. Find value in the everyday: Understand that personal growth and spiritual progress occur through the challenges and opportunities presented in our daily lives. Embrace the mundane as an opportunity for growth.

• 3. Practice embodiment: Rather than seeking to recreate or relive intense experiences, focus on embodying the lessons and insights gained from these experiences in your everyday interactions. Let the transformation naturally manifest in your actions and relationships.

By integrating these insights into our lives, we can navigate the complexities of human behavior and find harmony between our natural inclinations and the demands of daily life.