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Emotional Amoral Egoism: A Neurophilosophical Theory of Human Nature and its Universal Security Implications
The enduring assumption that human behaviour is governed by innate morality and reason is at odds with the persistence of human deprivation, injustice, brutality, inequality and conflict. This book offers a fresh look at human nature and universal security by proposing a new general theory of human nature, "emotional amoral egoism", and a specific theory of human motivation that draw on a wide range of philosophical, psychological and evolutionary approaches as well as neuroscientific research. It argues that human behaviour is governed primarily by emotional self-interest and that the human mind is a predisposed tabula rasa. The author argues that most human beings are innately neither moral nor immoral but rather amoral. Circumstances will determine the survival value of humankind's moral compass. This insight has profound implications for the re-ordering of governance mechanisms at all levels with a strong emphasis on the role of society and the global system. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the substrates of human nature and its universal security implications in relation to identity, conflict, ethnocentrism, xenophobia, morality and global governance.
- GenresPhilosophy
240 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2008
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October 21, 2010
Nayef R.F. Al-Rodhan Ph.D., Author
“emotional amoral egoism”
Transaction Publishers, ISBN 978-3-8258-0954-6
Non-Fiction-educational, psychology, conflict resolution, international relations, human nature
237 pages
October 2010 Review for Bookpleasures
Reviewer-Michelle Kaye Malsbury, BSBM, MM
Review
One cannot argue with Dr. Al-Rodhan's credentials, which are beyond reproach. He is Senior Scholar (Geostrategy) and Director of Programs on the Geopolitical Implications of Globalization and Transnational Security at the Geneva Center for Security Policy in Geneva, Switzerland. (2010, back cover). With his recent book, “emotional amoral egoism,” he no doubt demonstrates his ability to influence the future direction of scholastic discourse and public policy.
Dr. Al-Rodhan begins "emotional amoral egoism" logically and sequentially with the topic of human nature and introduction of various theorists positions on same. The subject matter is complex and spans a variety of disciplines. Each chapter’s material builds on the previous one in support of Rodhan’s overall theme: which is to advance the scholastic understanding of human nature and to tie that understanding of human behavior to international relations associated with global security. (2010, pgs.13-14).
I found his hypothesis and arguments to be a refreshing and interesting approach to international relations that can be readily applied toward increased understanding, accountability, and transparency regarding human behavior on a number of levels ranging from our educational systems, to government and media.
Instead of using the Locke theory of the human mind (tabula rasa or blank slate), Dr. Al-Rodhan builds upon that framework and introduces what he calls “predisposed tabula rasa.”
In this context Al-Rodhan states “…genetic make-up is…code for survival”. He hypothecates that- “Survival instincts are emotionally based and neurochemically mediated.” To which Al-Rodhan adds, “We are therefore driven by both basic survival instincts and rational thought.” (2010, p.15) These statements form the backbone for his argument that human behavior is focused on emotional self-interest, i.e. survival first [fear] and foremost, that this self-interest sets the stage for what individuals might do, or be capable of, with regard to morality and/or pre-emptive aggression. (p,17)
Disciplines crossed in this in-depth, comprehensive, look at human nature range from psychological approaches to human nature to religious and spiritual approaches, to human nature, to philosophical approaches, and finally through evolutionary approaches. The theory proposed by Dr. Al-Rodhan considers human motivations, emotions, genetic make-up, personality traits and their heterogeneous variations along with neurochemical and environmental factors, behavioral modification, and reflection. He conceptualizes those theories and interfaces them with morality and international relations, identity construction, xenophobia, and ethnocentricity toward increasing our understanding of conflict and boundaries in our moral communities.
There is also chapter designated to global governance, challenges, and responses just prior to reconciling the research findings and offering implications/recommendations that is especially helpful in understanding how we can apply this theory to practice.
Questions to be pondered in reading this work hinge on age old debates beginning with: constraint of our emotions v. perfection through reason, the nature/nurture debate, what influences come from environment v. those attributed to our biological heritage, through whether or not human beings are endowed with innate morality or radical freedom? To which Dr. Al-Rodhan replies, “We are neither radically free to choose our nature nor entirely determined by our biological heritage”. (2010, p.65) Furthermore, Al-Rodhan believes that our “…survival instincts are emotionally based…” and “the result of variation and competition.” (p.68) However, it is important to note, “Sometimes, emotions may be influenced by conscious thought.” (p.69) Human beings have the capability to be “…either moral or immoral depending on what their general self-interest dictates”. (pgs.70-71)
Al-Rodhan suggests that “…environment can alter how instincts are acted on”. (2010, p.73) And that “…fear, pain, and grief…” are some factors that influence human motivation. Depth of the emotion may add to the intensity of the act. (p.77) Other drivers of human actions/behavior are: “ego, pride, and reputation” as well as, “…greed…individual inclinations…” and “…reason…reflection and morality…”. (pgs.78-82) Taken together or singularly, all of those influences are likely to contribute to, and determine, what each person deems moral or immoral according to Al-Rodhan.
Emotions and genetic make-up need also be factored into our actions or reactions to any given situation or circumstance. Al-Rodhan has traced brain activity to emotions and notes that emotions are neurochemically based and stress related. Certain societal factors and environmental situations, as well as, personality disorders can trend toward more aggressive behaviors and negative emotions. Therefore, changes induced via medications targeting specific areas of the brain where these chemicals are triggered or via introduction of behavioral modification therapy should be capable of creating differing outcomes in certain circumstances. (2010, chapter 3.7)Toward this end, Al-Rodhan happens to attach more importance to emotions as controllers for behavior than reason. (p.138)
Can understanding what drives certain human behavior be a critical factor in creation of peace and international stability? Dr. Al-Rodhan suggests yes. It should be the express desire of world leaders to “…create the conditions under which the expansion of our moral communities may become more likely”. (2010, p.156) How can this be done? Al-Rodhan believes this can be achieved by: promotion of inclusive “…national identities” and “…diversity…”spearheaded through “…policies and governance structures aimed at reducing structural inequality and promoting inter-civilisational understanding and dialogue”. (p,165)
In closing Al-Rodhan adds “The educational system is a particularly important means of combating xenophobia and ethnocentrism by increasing awareness of others and teaching children to unlearn stereotypes”. (2010, p.173) “The media and information and communication technologies are also critical vehicles.” Putting this into practice means we must pay close attention to: “…traditionally marginalized groups, including the poor, women, and people with disabilities, in the political process”. (p.198)
In “emotional amoral egoism” Al-Rodhan writes a very comprehensive summary outlining the components that comprise human behavior and how various factors can influence actions and emotions. This book should be a must read for world leaders who wish to work toward more peaceful and stable international relationships, educators who are concerned with undoing biases and stereotypes that contribute to creation of conflict and division, and the media who are challenged with writing truthfully and with integrity about what can and needs to be done to make this world a better place for all people.
“emotional amoral egoism”
Transaction Publishers, ISBN 978-3-8258-0954-6
Non-Fiction-educational, psychology, conflict resolution, international relations, human nature
237 pages
October 2010 Review for Bookpleasures
Reviewer-Michelle Kaye Malsbury, BSBM, MM
Review
One cannot argue with Dr. Al-Rodhan's credentials, which are beyond reproach. He is Senior Scholar (Geostrategy) and Director of Programs on the Geopolitical Implications of Globalization and Transnational Security at the Geneva Center for Security Policy in Geneva, Switzerland. (2010, back cover). With his recent book, “emotional amoral egoism,” he no doubt demonstrates his ability to influence the future direction of scholastic discourse and public policy.
Dr. Al-Rodhan begins "emotional amoral egoism" logically and sequentially with the topic of human nature and introduction of various theorists positions on same. The subject matter is complex and spans a variety of disciplines. Each chapter’s material builds on the previous one in support of Rodhan’s overall theme: which is to advance the scholastic understanding of human nature and to tie that understanding of human behavior to international relations associated with global security. (2010, pgs.13-14).
I found his hypothesis and arguments to be a refreshing and interesting approach to international relations that can be readily applied toward increased understanding, accountability, and transparency regarding human behavior on a number of levels ranging from our educational systems, to government and media.
Instead of using the Locke theory of the human mind (tabula rasa or blank slate), Dr. Al-Rodhan builds upon that framework and introduces what he calls “predisposed tabula rasa.”
In this context Al-Rodhan states “…genetic make-up is…code for survival”. He hypothecates that- “Survival instincts are emotionally based and neurochemically mediated.” To which Al-Rodhan adds, “We are therefore driven by both basic survival instincts and rational thought.” (2010, p.15) These statements form the backbone for his argument that human behavior is focused on emotional self-interest, i.e. survival first [fear] and foremost, that this self-interest sets the stage for what individuals might do, or be capable of, with regard to morality and/or pre-emptive aggression. (p,17)
Disciplines crossed in this in-depth, comprehensive, look at human nature range from psychological approaches to human nature to religious and spiritual approaches, to human nature, to philosophical approaches, and finally through evolutionary approaches. The theory proposed by Dr. Al-Rodhan considers human motivations, emotions, genetic make-up, personality traits and their heterogeneous variations along with neurochemical and environmental factors, behavioral modification, and reflection. He conceptualizes those theories and interfaces them with morality and international relations, identity construction, xenophobia, and ethnocentricity toward increasing our understanding of conflict and boundaries in our moral communities.
There is also chapter designated to global governance, challenges, and responses just prior to reconciling the research findings and offering implications/recommendations that is especially helpful in understanding how we can apply this theory to practice.
Questions to be pondered in reading this work hinge on age old debates beginning with: constraint of our emotions v. perfection through reason, the nature/nurture debate, what influences come from environment v. those attributed to our biological heritage, through whether or not human beings are endowed with innate morality or radical freedom? To which Dr. Al-Rodhan replies, “We are neither radically free to choose our nature nor entirely determined by our biological heritage”. (2010, p.65) Furthermore, Al-Rodhan believes that our “…survival instincts are emotionally based…” and “the result of variation and competition.” (p.68) However, it is important to note, “Sometimes, emotions may be influenced by conscious thought.” (p.69) Human beings have the capability to be “…either moral or immoral depending on what their general self-interest dictates”. (pgs.70-71)
Al-Rodhan suggests that “…environment can alter how instincts are acted on”. (2010, p.73) And that “…fear, pain, and grief…” are some factors that influence human motivation. Depth of the emotion may add to the intensity of the act. (p.77) Other drivers of human actions/behavior are: “ego, pride, and reputation” as well as, “…greed…individual inclinations…” and “…reason…reflection and morality…”. (pgs.78-82) Taken together or singularly, all of those influences are likely to contribute to, and determine, what each person deems moral or immoral according to Al-Rodhan.
Emotions and genetic make-up need also be factored into our actions or reactions to any given situation or circumstance. Al-Rodhan has traced brain activity to emotions and notes that emotions are neurochemically based and stress related. Certain societal factors and environmental situations, as well as, personality disorders can trend toward more aggressive behaviors and negative emotions. Therefore, changes induced via medications targeting specific areas of the brain where these chemicals are triggered or via introduction of behavioral modification therapy should be capable of creating differing outcomes in certain circumstances. (2010, chapter 3.7)Toward this end, Al-Rodhan happens to attach more importance to emotions as controllers for behavior than reason. (p.138)
Can understanding what drives certain human behavior be a critical factor in creation of peace and international stability? Dr. Al-Rodhan suggests yes. It should be the express desire of world leaders to “…create the conditions under which the expansion of our moral communities may become more likely”. (2010, p.156) How can this be done? Al-Rodhan believes this can be achieved by: promotion of inclusive “…national identities” and “…diversity…”spearheaded through “…policies and governance structures aimed at reducing structural inequality and promoting inter-civilisational understanding and dialogue”. (p,165)
In closing Al-Rodhan adds “The educational system is a particularly important means of combating xenophobia and ethnocentrism by increasing awareness of others and teaching children to unlearn stereotypes”. (2010, p.173) “The media and information and communication technologies are also critical vehicles.” Putting this into practice means we must pay close attention to: “…traditionally marginalized groups, including the poor, women, and people with disabilities, in the political process”. (p.198)
In “emotional amoral egoism” Al-Rodhan writes a very comprehensive summary outlining the components that comprise human behavior and how various factors can influence actions and emotions. This book should be a must read for world leaders who wish to work toward more peaceful and stable international relationships, educators who are concerned with undoing biases and stereotypes that contribute to creation of conflict and division, and the media who are challenged with writing truthfully and with integrity about what can and needs to be done to make this world a better place for all people.
July 11, 2012
The name of this book, Emotional Amoral Egoism: A Neurophilosophical Theory of Human Nature and its Universal Security Implications, by author Nayef R.F. Al-Rodhan, is a mouthful to say the least. But, the name shouldn’t scare you if you are into reading books about theory.
To break it down, the book explains the theory that humans were born with something called Tabula Rasa. Tabula Rasa, explained by Wikipedia is:
The epistemological theory that individuals are born without built-in mental content and that their knowledge comes from experience and perception. Generally proponents of the tabula rasa thesis favour the “nurture” side of the nature versus nurture debate, when it comes to aspects of one’s personality, social and emotional behaviour, and intelligence.
In basic terms it just means that we are born with a blank slate and we learn as we grow based on life experiences, where we grew up – different parts of the world and even different parts of the U.S. There are things that humans will innately have as part of their genetics, but the decisions we make is what forms the type of adult we become. We are always driven to look out for ourselves when we make life choices, but our surroundings have a huge impact on those decisions. He also explains how humans are amoral – basically, that means that our survival instincts will kick in when faced with certain decisions we have to make.
It is quite an interesting book – but not one I would have chosen to pick up and read. This is not a feel good, sit on the beach and read book – but if human nature interests you and you enjoy delving into what makes us tick, you will enjoy this book.
To break it down, the book explains the theory that humans were born with something called Tabula Rasa. Tabula Rasa, explained by Wikipedia is:
The epistemological theory that individuals are born without built-in mental content and that their knowledge comes from experience and perception. Generally proponents of the tabula rasa thesis favour the “nurture” side of the nature versus nurture debate, when it comes to aspects of one’s personality, social and emotional behaviour, and intelligence.
In basic terms it just means that we are born with a blank slate and we learn as we grow based on life experiences, where we grew up – different parts of the world and even different parts of the U.S. There are things that humans will innately have as part of their genetics, but the decisions we make is what forms the type of adult we become. We are always driven to look out for ourselves when we make life choices, but our surroundings have a huge impact on those decisions. He also explains how humans are amoral – basically, that means that our survival instincts will kick in when faced with certain decisions we have to make.
It is quite an interesting book – but not one I would have chosen to pick up and read. This is not a feel good, sit on the beach and read book – but if human nature interests you and you enjoy delving into what makes us tick, you will enjoy this book.
September 30, 2012
An extremely well researched and informative book into what constitutes not just what makes us think the way we do but also the way we act. The author uses clear and concise explanations and illustrations to explain his theories and to back up his statements.
An excellent study book which you need to read in a quiet or undisturbed room to fully appreciate and understand. In certain parts the text may need reading a couple of times. Students of psychology or philosophy must read this book to help further their learning.
I especially enjoyed the introduction and beginning of the book as the author uses famous philosophers to explain our behaviours and ideas with reasoned and balanced logic, he follows this by describing factors and/or influences that can have an impact on how we behave or react.
The second part of the book deals in more depth of how these factors and influences affect our way of thinking and how it is difficult for humans to change our nature or beliefs and offers theories on how we can change.
This is the second book that I have read by this particular author and this again did not disappoint, the area of mind and brain and its workings have been a mystery for centuries and this books goes a long way to answering or offering solutions to those questions.
An excellent study book which you need to read in a quiet or undisturbed room to fully appreciate and understand. In certain parts the text may need reading a couple of times. Students of psychology or philosophy must read this book to help further their learning.
I especially enjoyed the introduction and beginning of the book as the author uses famous philosophers to explain our behaviours and ideas with reasoned and balanced logic, he follows this by describing factors and/or influences that can have an impact on how we behave or react.
The second part of the book deals in more depth of how these factors and influences affect our way of thinking and how it is difficult for humans to change our nature or beliefs and offers theories on how we can change.
This is the second book that I have read by this particular author and this again did not disappoint, the area of mind and brain and its workings have been a mystery for centuries and this books goes a long way to answering or offering solutions to those questions.
July 3, 2012
First, if you are saying what in the world is she taking about? Do not fear! Well, unless you have flashbacks to Ethics and Theory while at college ... This book is extremely well written and poses many questions for the reader. The main question I picked up on was the entire concept of humans being born with a Tabula Rasa - A Blank Slate! When you compare people, whether they grew up in the same area in the world or not, certain decisions they make are key to what they will grow into as an adult. As the author states, we are prone to certain things from our genetics and the environment we currently live in. Basically we are more emotionally driven than anything rational. Dr. Nayef R.F. Al-Rodhan explains humans are self-fulfilling, looking out for number 1, when making any type of decision. Depending on where one grew up, the environment has a key element in this area.
This would be a great book to use in a Ethics and/or Theory class. It is around 240 pages, sold on Amazon, and should be a college read! Be sure to check out his website for more information.
This would be a great book to use in a Ethics and/or Theory class. It is around 240 pages, sold on Amazon, and should be a college read! Be sure to check out his website for more information.
July 22, 2012
The book is one that I would of never thought of reading. The Emotional and Amoral Egoism will open your mind and make you think long and hard. I never thought about what makes us humans the way we are. Even though the book was like reading a text book in school I do feel enlightened after reading it.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews