What Sparked Lewis Thomas’s Inspiration for Penning the ‘The Natural Man’ Essay
What inspired Lewis Thomas to write the “Natural Man” passage was his deep-seated concern for the human condition and the rapidly changing world around him. As a physician, scientist, and essayist, Thomas had a unique perspective on the intersection of science, culture, and society. The passage, which is a part of his book “The Lives of a Cell,” delves into the essence of human nature and the challenges we face in the modern world.
In the early 1970s, when Thomas wrote “The Natural Man,” he was witnessing a significant shift in the way humans perceived themselves and their place in the universe. The advancements in science and technology were transforming society at an unprecedented rate, and Thomas felt that these changes were eroding the very essence of what it meant to be human. This prompted him to explore the concept of the “Natural Man” and how it could serve as a guiding principle for humanity in the face of these rapid transformations.
One of the primary inspirations for Thomas was his belief in the interconnectedness of all living things. He was particularly influenced by the works of Rachel Carson, who highlighted the delicate balance of ecosystems and the consequences of human interference in nature. Thomas was fascinated by the idea that humans, as part of the natural world, are subject to the same biological and evolutionary processes as other organisms. This realization led him to ponder the question of what makes us truly human and how we can maintain our connection to the natural world.
Another significant influence on Thomas was his own experiences as a physician. He witnessed firsthand the suffering of patients who were disconnected from their natural selves, as well as the transformative power of reconnecting with nature. This personal insight informed his writing and helped him to articulate the importance of embracing our natural instincts and the wisdom of our bodies.
In addition, Thomas was inspired by the works of philosophers and scientists who explored the nature of consciousness and self-awareness. He was particularly drawn to the ideas of Immanuel Kant, who emphasized the role of reason in shaping human understanding and behavior. By examining the relationship between reason and instinct, Thomas sought to uncover the core of human nature and how it could guide us in the modern world.
In conclusion, what inspired Lewis Thomas to write the “Natural Man” passage was a combination of his deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of all living things, his personal experiences as a physician, and the philosophical and scientific insights of his time. Through this passage, Thomas invites us to reflect on our place in the natural world and to embrace our inherent connection to it, as a means of navigating the complexities of the modern age.
