As a young student of mechanical engineering and later in his medical studies, Samuel Wilkinson from Yale delved into the realm of science, particularly the theories of evolution, to unravel the mysteries surrounding the meaning and purpose of life.
In his latest publication, an associate professor of psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, Wilkinson amalgamates insights from various scientific domains, ranging from evolutionary biology to cognitive psychology. This synthesis constructs a framework proposing not only the existence of an overarching purpose to human life but also delineating what that purpose entails.
In a dialogue with Yale News, Wilkinson sheds light on the origins of his intrigue in deciphering life’s purpose, elucidating how nature ingrains in humans a “dual potential,” and the evolutionary mechanisms that impel us towards altruism.
According to Wilkinson, the amalgamation of our freedom to choose with the dual nature of human beings strongly implies that life serves as a test. He posits that the essence of life lies in selecting between the inherent impulses of good and evil within us, almost as if this choice is hardcoded into our very DNA.
Wilkinson’s inspiration for the book traces back to a pivotal moment during his medical education, where he grappled with an existential crisis triggered by the perceived conflict between scientific teachings, especially evolution, and his deeply held beliefs regarding the value and purpose of life.
The book delves into the inherent conflicts within individuals and societies that mold our worldview. Wilkinson acknowledges the selfish tendencies ingrained in human nature but also highlights the profound capacity for altruism that coexists within us. This juxtaposition, termed the “dual potential” of human nature in his book, underscores the internal conflict that shapes our actions.
While acknowledging the influence of external circumstances on our decisions, Wilkinson emphasizes the role of conscious thoughts in guiding our behavior. Drawing on the analogy of the elephant and the rider, he underscores the interplay between automatic responses driven by the environment (the elephant) and deliberate, rational choices (the rider) that shape our actions.
Wilkinson emphasizes that despite the myriad forces influencing our decisions, the interplay of free will and the dual potential of human nature implies that life is essentially a test of choosing between good and evil impulses encoded within us.
In exploring the evolutionary underpinnings of positive choices, Wilkinson delves into the concept of “levels of selection” in biology. He contends that evolution operates not only at the individual level but also at the group or family level, emphasizing the role of social traits in shaping our behavior.
Regarding the pursuit of happiness, Wilkinson underscores the significance of personal relationships. He notes that humans often misconstrue the sources of enduring happiness, erroneously believing that status or material possessions lead to fulfillment. Contrary to these beliefs, serving others and fostering social connections often yield greater happiness than self-centered pursuits, highlighting the intrinsic joy in giving to others.
In essence, Wilkinson’s work delves into the intricate interplay between evolutionary forces, human nature, and the choices that define our existence, offering profound insights into the purpose and meaning of life.