Liberty Law Talk
Understanding Relational Persons: A Conversation with Roger Scruton
Jan 12, 2020
Roger Scruton discusses his latest book on human nature, exploring the reconciliation of conflicting views of evolutionary biology and individual autonomy through guilt and excuses. The podcast explores the extra dimension of human behavior that evolutionary adaptation and scientific ideas alone cannot explain. It delves into the concept of personhood, comparing Kant's ideas to the modern liberal account based on contract and consent. The podcast also examines emergent features and cognitive dualism, discussing the limitations of evolutionary biology in explaining human behavior and experiences. The chapter on freedom emphasizes the connection between responsibility, blame, and accountability, and explores the limitations of the concept of contract and consent in understanding human relationships.
44:08
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Quick takeaways
- Evolutionary biology can explain human behavior, but it cannot fully capture the complexity of human behavior and the emergence of a new reality beyond adaptation.
- Human nature encompasses more than just contract and consent; it includes a deep sense of the sacredness of others and recognition of moral obligations.
Deep dives
Understanding the Contradiction between Evolutionary Biology and Personal Autonomy
Evolutionary biology claims to explain human behavior through adaptation, while also asserting personal autonomy and freedom. This contradiction arises because living freely can lead to guilt, and evolutionary biology is used as an excuse to remove guilt.
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