Reflections 5: Evolution and human nature
This is one of a series of nine essays. Before you read this one, please read the series introduction.
Ayn Rand never accepted evolution through natural selection. According to Tibor Machan, "…the topic of how evolutionary biology could be made compatible with free will and morality" is "missing from [Rand's] works," quoted by Neil Parille in his essay "Ayn Rand and Evolution" found online 23 Nov 2021 at rebirthofreason.com/Articles/Parille/Ayn_Rand_and_Evolution).
Humans are qualitatively unique. Rand did not admit that humans (and all organisms) evolved genetically primarily by accumulating small modifications in the existing bodies and functions. This denies that many (or perhaps even all) characteristics thought to be uniquely human are found in rudimentary form in other species.
Rand rejected all forms of instincts in humans. Yet it is commonly observed that humans and individuals of other species have inherited behavioral drives. I am writing another post addressing the question "are natural drives real." For now, I'll assume that they are. These drives include having sex, eating, and protecting one's self. Another drive may be the "baby hunger" reported by many women withoug children when they near menopause. In humans, a drive to have sex is found in our emotional systems. Men desire sex (grow "horny") if it's been a while since they had sex, which is also when their seminal vesicles are full). Rand thought people desired sex to "objectify" themselves. There is no evidence that other species objectify, but lots of observations of sexual desire. The simplest explanation comes by applying Aristotle's "final cause." Those species that reproduce by sex will go extinct in one generation if they refrain from mating. One need not get lost in the weeds of philosophical causality to see that selection will favor all inherited characteristics that favor creating a successful next generation.
The modern theory of evolution through natural selection can explain the rise of human nature and the existence of a natural life purpose, natural goals, and natural law. What other mechanism can do that?[1]
So what difference does it make in your life if you do not accept evolution through natural selection? You lose any ability to understand why things are as they are. You lose the ability to accept reality as it is. You are forced to believe in arbitrary supernatural forces like God--and are vulnerable to being exploited by charlatans.
Tags: #Ayn Rand #instincts #drives #natural selection #causality
[1] For a much more details about human nature and related concepts, see my books.