Dlaczego człowiek nie może być aniołem (uwagi do sentencji Pascala: „Człowiek nie jest ani aniołem ani bydlęciem, nieszczęście w tym, iż kto chce być aniołem, bywa bydlęciem”)

Abstract

The article discusses why humans cannot be angels. It begins by offering a simple answer that humans cannot be angels because they are human, but the author delves deeper into the subject. The author explores the distinction between humans and angels and the implications of Pascal’s maxim: “Man is neither an angel nor a beast; the unhappiness lies in the fact that whoever wishes to be an angel often becomes a beast.” The article argues that this maxim reveals much about human nature and condition.The article discusses how the modern era’s pursuit of cognitive absolutism further detaches humans from their true nature and realities. This detach-ment, along with an anthropocentric vision of mastery over nature, results in unforeseen consequences such as the recent pandemic. The article warns against ignoring human limitations while also advocating for a balanced view of human potential. Ultimately, it suggests that the desire to transcend human nature can lead to a loss of self-awareness and a distorted perspective on the relationship between humans, nature, and the divine.