The Impact of Abandoning Primitive Behaviors for a Strictly Mathematical Existence
Imagine a world where humans completely abandon their characteristic behaviors and instead focus solely on mathematical principles, scientific thinking, and logical reasoning. This thought experiment delves into the potential consequences of such a drastic shift in human behavior.
The Necessity of Application in Mathematics
Mathematics, often revered as the pinnacle of human intellectual achievement, plays a crucial role in shaping reality. However, it does not function in isolation; it is a mental framework that requires practical application to manifest in the physical world.
The strict application of mathematics without any practical implementation would lead to a phenomenon where the universe becomes mere information without physical structure. As the saying goes, 'If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?' In a strictly mathematical universe, if there is no application or physical manifestation, there is nothing to observe or interact with.
The Role of Application in Human Behavior
Humans have evolved not just through the intellect but also through their behaviors. These behaviors are essential to our survival and evolution. For instance, hunting, farming, cooking, building shelters, developing medicines, and performing surgeries are all behaviors that define our humanity.
The strict adherence to mathematical thinking would mean that these essential activities would cease to be performed. A mathematical entity would not be capable of carrying out these tasks because it lacks the physical and emotional capabilities necessary for such actions. In effect, without these behaviors, the idea of a human would cease to exist.
The Critique of Nazi-Era Scientific and Technological Approach
The German Nazis in the 20th century applied 20th-century techniques of industrialization and mechanization to the swift extinction of human life. This stark example highlights the dangerous consequences of a purely logical and mathematical approach devoid of ethical considerations.
The Nazis' application of scientific and technological progress to eradicate human behavior was a dire warning against the consequences of such a mindset. Your question mirrors those pondered by the Nazis a century ago, but it must be answered with a perspective that values human life and ethics above strict logic and mathematics.
Consequences of Abandoning Human Behaviors
Returning to the hypothetical scenario, if humans were to abandon their characteristic behaviors such as sports, gourmet meals, films, television shows, dance, and music, they would lose essential parts of their cultural and emotional lives. These activities are deeply rooted in our humanity and provide profound connections and experiences that are irreplaceable.
Furthermore, if a strictly mathematical entity were to pose this question, it would be indicative that such an entity has not evolved through human behaviors and therefore does not understand the value of these experiences. Such a world would have no use for individual humans, leading to extreme measures like sterilization, mass extermination, or even euthanasia.
Conclusion
While the idea of a world strictly governed by mathematics and scientific thinking might seem appealing from a logical standpoint, it overlooks the essential role that human behaviors play in our lives. The value of these behaviors lies in their emotional depth, cultural significance, and the ethical considerations they bring. A purely logical and mathematical existence might be intellectually satisfying but would lead to a barren and meaningless world devoid of human essence.
Instead of abandoning these behaviors, we should seek to integrate them with mathematical and scientific advancements to create a balanced, fulfilling, and ethical society. The true power lies in merging the best of both worlds to elevate the human condition.