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Politics : Sharks in the Septic Tank
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To: TimF who wrote (80453)3/3/2004 1:36:45 PM
From: Solon  Read Replies (2) of 82486
 
Well, I am trying to understand you. You did say this:

"I don't agree that being human is about consciousness or higher reasoning. Some humans are not at the conscious at any particular moment, and many are very limited in their reasoning ability, also its quite possible (in my opinion likely) that there are conscious, reasoning alien races. They would not be human"

Now, along with the general tenor of your remarks, I took this to mean that you make an important distinction between humanity qua biology and humanity qua consciousness. Obviously, your remark to me that "They would not be human" is not intended to suggest I need any enlightenment in that regard. I know that you know that I know that non-humans are not humans. So how to interpret your pointed remark? The point is obviously not to correct me in a mistaken belief as to what makes a human. The point seems to be to make it clear that consciousness is somehow only of peripheral concern or moment.

But I do not wish to misinterpret you. So let me ask you this: Would you value a biological human zygote ahead of an alien with a refined intellect and a consciousness characterized by both reason and compassion? How about a biological human with an alien appearance and no remaining consciousness beyond parasympathetic electrical activity?

"The zygote already is a human"

True. And everything else is a potential human. The zygote however is in actuality not more impressive than an ant. It is potentially (however) a thinking and a feeling human. I have been trying to learn from you whether or not thought and feeling are relevant in determining the value you give to "humans". I am not seeking a scientific definition of the genetic code of humans.

For instance: pretend that two children are in a cabin which catches fire. One is in a coma from which the doctors have assured you there is no possibility of release. She is expected to die in days, weeks, or months--perhaps longer. The other is a normal daughter in love with the world. Would you make a distinction between them if you could only save one?
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