Your view of human nature

What you believe people are like at their core — one of philosophy's oldest debates.

A self-identification of a classic philosophical question — whether people are basically good, self-interested, or shaped by their circumstances. A matter of worldview, not a settled fact. (Philosophy of human nature)

Groups

• Basically good — People are good at heart (Rousseau-leaning).
• Self-interested — People mostly act in their own interest (Hobbes-leaning).
• Shaped by environment — Neither good nor bad — formed by upbringing and circumstance.
• Both good and bad — Capable of both; it depends on the situation.
• Flawed but perfectible — Imperfect, but able to learn, grow, and improve.

Related topics

• School of philosophy you lean toward
• How you see mind & body
• Is beauty objective?
• The big question that grips you
• Ethical ideology (EPQ)

All topics on ArtaQuest