Are humans fundamentally good or bad?

The question of whether humans are fundamentally good or bad is a longstanding debate in philosophy, psychology, and other fields of study. There are different perspectives on this question, and the answer may depend on one’s beliefs and worldview.

One perspective is that humans are fundamentally good, and that our natural state is one of cooperation, empathy, and kindness. Proponents of this view argue that many of the negative behaviors and attitudes that we see in human societies are the result of social conditioning, cultural norms, and other external factors that distort our inherent goodness.

On the other hand, some argue that humans are fundamentally bad or flawed, and that our natural state is one of self-interest, aggression, and selfishness. Proponents of this view point to the many examples of violence, greed, and cruelty that exist in human history and contemporary society, and argue that these are indicative of a darker aspect of human nature.

Overall, there is no consensus on whether humans are fundamentally good or bad, and it is likely that both perspectives contain some truth. It is also important to recognize that individuals may have different tendencies and capacities for good and bad behavior, and that these can be influenced by a range of factors, including culture, environment, upbringing, and individual choices.

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