THE WANING OF HUMANENESS

by Konrad Lorenz ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 14, 1987

The eminent Nobel laureate continues his exploration of the human experience, concerned as he is with the apparent gap between our psycho-cultural development and our evolutionary history. Lorenz argues that our minds are capable of designing a world which can overburden and dehumanize those who live in it. To bolster this hypothesis, he presents a brilliant reprise of our evolutionary development and the role of science in the technocratic world. In this book, he reminds us of our vulnerability and arrogance, and warns us of our self-destructive ways, bedazzled as we are by the accomplishments of science, bureaucracy, luxuries and mindless productivity. Hubris and wanton desires have threatened the world's delicate balance and have made us resolutely ignorant of just how minuscule our ""Knowledge"" is. Man has been propagandized to such a degree that he no longer knows the difference between good and bad, beautiful and ugly. This has happened says Lorenz, because man has failed to heed the wisdom inherent in subjective experience and genetic heritage. The systematic devaluing of inner reality by behaviorism, scientism and positivism has left mankind dangerously exposed, out of whack, increasingly inhumane and not in touch with the inner man. However, Lorenz holds out hope that if the young are trained to think critically and given an awareness of the great harmonies in the world, they may yet be able to save it. Much to chew on here, and a very nourishing diet it is.

Pub Date: May 14, 1987

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Little, Brown

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 1987

Categories: NONFICTION