Vikings on Nostr: “The real problem of humanity is the following: We have Paleolithic emotions, ...

“The real problem of humanity is the following:
We have Paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions and godlike technology.”
- DR. E.O. WILSON, SOCIOBIOLOGIST

Paleolithic Emotions:
This refers to the idea that the core emotional and psychological makeup of humans has not significantly evolved since the Paleolithic era, which was around 2.5 million years ago until about 10,000 years ago. During this time, humans were primarily hunter-gatherers, and their emotions and instincts were shaped to deal with the challenges and environments of that period. These emotions include fear, anger, joy, love, and other basic survival instincts. Despite our advancements in knowledge and technology, our emotional responses to various situations remain rooted in our ancient past.

Medieval Institutions:
This part of the quote points out that many of our societal, political, and economic institutions are outdated and have not kept pace with the rapid advancements in technology and knowledge. The term "medieval" suggests that some of these institutions are based on historical practices that may no longer be relevant or efficient in addressing modern-day issues. Examples of such institutions could include certain bureaucratic systems, governance structures, and even some aspects of legal frameworks that might be inefficient or fail to meet the needs of contemporary societies.

Godlike Technology:
The phrase "godlike technology" refers to the incredibly advanced technological capabilities that humans have developed, particularly in recent times. The term "godlike" suggests that these technologies have reached a level of sophistication and power that would have been inconceivable to people from earlier periods in history. Examples of such technologies include artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, space exploration, advanced medical treatments, and more. These technologies have the potential to reshape the world in profound ways, both positively and negatively.

The essence of the quote lies in the tension created by the mismatch between our ancient emotions, outdated institutions, and the powerful technologies we have at our disposal. While we possess incredible technological prowess, our emotional and institutional frameworks may not be adequately equipped to handle the consequences and responsibilities that come with these advancements.

This quote encourages reflection on how we can bridge the gap between our ancient instincts and modern realities, and how we can update our institutions to effectively govern and navigate the transformative impact of rapidly advancing technology. It prompts us to consider how we can create a more balanced and sustainable world that leverages technology for the betterment of humanity while also acknowledging and addressing our inherent emotional and social limitations.