The Web of Life

Human Behaviour, Social Change, and the Search for Meaning

The goal of a constitutional government is the protection of the Republic; that of a revolutionary government is the establishment of the Republic.

—Maximilien Robespierre, Voices of Revolt

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Human behavior is shaped by many forces—our fears, beliefs, and social environments—but it is also the engine of social change.

By exploring the fundamental aspects of economics, religion, philosophy, and psychology, we gain a clearer understanding of how civilizations are built and evolve.

In this article, we will look at the interplay of ideas ranging from the fear of life and death, the principles of business and entrepreneurship, and the moral teachings of major world religions, to ancient and modern philosophies that still guide us today.

Human Behavior, the Fear of Life and Death, and Social Change

Human behavior is deeply influenced by existential fears—the fear of life’s uncertainty and the fear of death.

Otto Rank, a psychoanalyst, believed that our drive to create stems from these fears.

In Art and Artist, Rank expresses that only “…through the will-to-self-immortalization, which rises from the fear of life, can we understand the interdependence of production and suffering and the definite influence of this on positive experience”.

This creative drive is crucial in shaping societies—whether art, business, or social institutions—as it pushes individuals and groups to construct structures that offer a sense of continuity and purpose.

Rank’s perspective resonates with the fundamental role of business and entrepreneurship in society.

Entrepreneurship is not just about generating wealth; it’s a creative process that involves risk-taking, problem-solving, and innovation.

In The Innovator's Dilemma, Clayton M. Christensen explores how established companies can fail despite doing everything right, simply because they overlook disruptive innovations.

This highlights the importance of fostering a culture that encourages creativity and adaptability, essential for long-term success.

These foundational principles of business are embedded in the larger structure of civilization, influencing everything from market economies to social mobility.

Through entrepreneurship, individuals often strive to leave a lasting legacy, much like the artist or philosopher who seeks to create something that endures beyond their lifetime.

By embracing the creative spirit and remaining open to new ideas, entrepreneurs can navigate challenges and drive meaningful change in their industries.

Foundations of Economics and Civilization

At the heart of any civilization is its economic system, which provides the structure through which individuals meet their basic needs and pursue greater aspirations.

Economic principles are not just about trade and wealth generation; they are closely tied to human flourishing and social stability.

Understanding the foundations of economics, as Yanis Varoufakis outlines in Foundations of Economic, helps people see how resources are distributed, how the markets function, and how innovation leads to growth.

But economics alone does not build a civilization.

Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics explores the concept of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, as the highest good that individuals can achieve.

He argues that this state is attained through the practice of virtue, which involves developing good habits and making choices that align with reason.

Central to his philosophy is the idea of the "Golden Mean," where moderation between extremes leads to a balanced life¹.

This framework not only benefits the individual but also fosters social cohesion and a shared sense of purpose within the community.

It requires moral and ethical frameworks that promote social cohesion and a shared sense of purpose, as cultivating virtues enables individuals to contribute to a more just and fulfilling community, reflecting the interconnectedness of personal well-being and societal health.

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam: A Triad of Compassion, Love, and Forgiveness

Religions provide powerful frameworks for guiding human behavior, and the three major monotheistic traditions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—each emphasize core values of compassion, love, and forgiveness that contribute to social change.

Judaism teaches the importance of loving-kindness (chesed) and justice (tzedek)².

For example, in Micah 6:8, it states:

הִגִּ֥יד לְךָ֛ אָדָ֖ם מַה־טּ֑וֹב וּמָֽה־יְהֹוָ֞ה דּוֹרֵ֣שׁ מִמְּךָ֗ כִּ֣י אִם־עֲשׂ֤וֹת מִשְׁפָּט֙ וְאַ֣הֲבַת חֶ֔סֶד וְהַצְנֵ֥עַ לֶ֖כֶת עִם־אֱלֹהֶֽיךָ׃ {ס} 

Would GOD be pleased with thousands of rams,
With myriads of streams of oil?
Shall I give my first-born for my transgression,
The fruit of my body for my sins?

The Jewish tradition encourages a deep relationship with God, the importance of community, and moral responsibility toward others. By fostering a culture of justice and community, Judaism lays the foundation for social structures that prioritize human dignity.

Christianity centers on the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized the transformative power of love and forgiveness. Christ’s call to forgive others as we are forgiven reflects the deep connection between personal transformation and social harmony. This message has inspired movements of compassion and reform throughout history, from early Christian communities to modern humanitarian efforts.

Islam places great emphasis on mercy (rahma) and compassion, which are reflected in the teachings of the Quran and the Hadith. Muslims are guided to live lives of humility, service, and compassion toward all beings, aiming to embody the divine attributes of Allah. This focus on mercy encourages social justice and the betterment of society.

Together, these three religions contribute to a moral framework that fosters love, forgiveness, and social responsibility—values crucial for building compassionate societies.

Philosophical Foundations: Virtue, Freedom, and the Search for Meaning

Philosophy has long been a guiding force in understanding human behavior and the structures of society. Ancient philosophers like Plato and Aristotle explored the nature of reality, ethics, and governance, while modern thinkers like Nietzsche and Kant challenged traditional values and introduced new ways of thinking about freedom, morality, and responsibility.

• Plato’s Theory of Forms suggests that the material world is a reflection of a higher reality. This view challenges us to consider justice, truth, and the ideal society, pushing us to create systems that reflect higher values.

• Aristotle’s Golden Mean emphasizes balance and moderation in life. His idea of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, continues to influence how we think about ethical living and social progress.

• Nietzsche’s Übermensch encourages individuals to transcend societal norms and create their own values. This philosophy of self-overcoming calls for personal responsibility and authenticity in the face of life’s challenges.

• Kant’s Categorical Imperative asserts that individuals should act according to universal moral laws, considering the consequences and ethics of their actions.

These philosophical frameworks help us navigate personal and societal challenges, offering tools for living meaningful lives and building just societies.

Hermetic Teachings and the Interconnectedness of All Things

The Hermetic teachings, rooted in ancient wisdom, introduce profound concepts about the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of self-knowledge.

• The Principle of Correspondence (“As above, so below”) reflects the harmony between the macrocosm and microcosm, suggesting that by understanding the external world, we can gain insight into our own inner nature.

• Self-Knowledge (Gnothi Seauton) is central to Hermetic philosophy. The journey inward is a path to enlightenment and aligns with the universal laws governing existence. This self-awareness empowers individuals to live in harmony with the world and with themselves, fostering personal growth and social change.

Jung and Peterson: Psychological Insights into Human Potential

In psychology, thinkers like Carl Jung and Jordan Peterson have expanded our understanding of human behavior, focusing on meaning, responsibility, and the journey toward self-realization.

• Jung’s collective unconscious and archetypes show us that human behavior is shaped by universal symbols and patterns. His concept of individuation—the process of becoming whole—encourages psychological growth and self-actualization.

• Jordan Peterson builds on these ideas, emphasizing the importance of responsibility, structure, and order in the pursuit of meaning. In a world of uncertainty, Peterson’s work resonates with many as they seek to navigate life’s complexities.

An Integrated Vision for Social Change

The key to understanding human behavior and social change lies in integrating the insights of philosophy, religion, economics, and psychology. From the fear of life and death to the structures of civilization, we see that human progress is driven by creativity, self-expression, and moral frameworks that promote compassion and justice.

Religious teachings from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam provide a triad of love, compassion, and forgiveness, while Hermetic wisdom and philosophical insights offer tools for self-knowledge and personal growth. Entrepreneurship and economic systems shape society’s structures, while psychology guides us through the inner journey toward meaning and fulfillment.

As individuals, we can contribute to positive social change by embracing the rich tapestry of human thought, from the creative drive to the pursuit of self-knowledge. In doing so, we foster a world where compassion, innovation, and understanding guide us toward a flourishing future.

How can we, as individuals, harness the wisdom of diverse philosophies, religions, and psychological insights to create meaningful social change in our own lives and communities?

1. For more information on the Golden Mean, see:

• Edwin Wallace, Outlines of the Philosophy of Aristotle

• Joseph W. Koterski, The Ethics of Aristotle

• Benjamin Jowett, The Politics of Aristotle

• Robert C. Bartlett, Susan D. Collins, Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics: A New Translation

• Peter Singer, Practical Ethics, Second Edition

2. See the following entries for more information:

• Seferia.org for texts, topics, and community

• Michael L. Rodkinson, The Babylonian Talmud:

  • Babylonian Talmud, Sukkah 49b; Berakhot 17a; Sabbat 1:1