Stephen Hawking was a brilliant physicist who made significant contributions to the field of physics despite facing enormous personal challenges. Hawking was diagnosed with a rare form of motor neuron disease when he was 21, which caused him to gradually lose control of his muscles. His work on black holes and the universe’s origin has revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Hawking’s legacy will continue to inspire scientists and people worldwide for generations to come. Hawking says “It is the effort to make oneself ‘more human’ that really makes a human being.” to understand his statement we need to discuss what is meant by being human.
So what does it mean to be human? Is it the shape of our body or the complexity of our brain that makes us human? While these physical traits certainly play a role in defining our species, there is something deeper that sets us apart from other animals. According to the philosopher Albert Schweitzer, being human is based on a conscious effort to strengthen humanity. This means that we are not only defined by our physical attributes, but rather by our ability to reflect and improve ourselves as individuals and as a species.Therefore, being human is not only a question of biology, but also of ethics and self-confidence.
Schweitzer believed that being human goes beyond just biological characteristics. It means continuous improvement of ourselves and our company. This can take many forms, such as learning a new skill or showing kindness to others. Learning is the key to our humanity. From birth we know the world all the time.This has led to the advancement of science, technology, art and literature. The pursuit of knowledge also helps us gain new insights that lead to a better world. Compassion and kindness are also important to being human. They allow us to empathize with others and form deep bonds. By showing compassion and kindness, we encourage and inspire those in need, creating a better world for all.Another key element of being human is the importance of community. Humans are social creatures and our ability to form deep connections with others allows us to thrive. When we strive to build and strengthen these bonds, we not only improve our lives, but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.
In conclusion, being human is not just about our physical characteristics but also about our conscious effort to be better than we are. Whether through learning, compassion, or community, it is the constant striving for improvement that truly defines us as human beings. By recognizing the value of this effort and making it a priority in our lives, we can all become more fully human. In doing so, we can create a better world for ourselves and for those who will come after us.