Evolution is the creation-myth of our age. By telling us our origin it shapes our views of what we are. It influences not just our thought, but our feelings and actions too, in a way which goes far beyond its official function as a biological theory.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the profound impact of evolutionary theory on our understanding of humanity and its influence on our thoughts and actions.
Mary Midgley highlights the significance of evolution not just as a biological concept, but as a narrative that shapes our identity and worldview. By providing a sense of origin, it profoundly affects how we perceive ourselves and our relationships with others, ultimately influencing our emotions and behaviors in ways that extend beyond mere scientific explanation.
In practice
During a lecture on life sciences, this quote could underscore the philosophical implications of evolution.
When some portion of the biosphere is rather unpopular with the human race-a crocodile, a dandelion, a stony valley, a snowstorm, an odd-shaped flint-there are three sorts of human being who are particularly likely still to see point in it and befriend it. They are poets, scientists and children. Inside each of us, I suggest, representatives of all these groups can be found.
Hubris calls for nemesis, and in one form or another it's going to get it, not as a punishment from outside but as the completion of a pattern already started.
Every fight is one between different angles of vision illuminating the same truth.
When some state or other offered Alexander a part of its territory and half of all its property he told them that 'he hadn't come to Asia with the intention of accepting whatever they cared to give him, but of letting them keep whatever he chose to leave them.' Philosophy, likewise, tells all other occupations: 'It's not my intention to accept whatever time is leftover from you; you shall have, instead, what I reject.' Give your whole mind to her.
Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages.
All true things must change and only that which changes remains true.
And I will show you something different from either Your shadow at morning striding behind you Or your shadow at evening rising to meet you I will show you fear in a handful of dust
We are all here on earth to help others; what on earth the others are here for I don't know.
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