The Philosophy of St. Augustine vs.. The Philosophy of Cognitive Science
by The article provides an in depth look at the philosophical teachings of St. Augustine versus the new age philosophy of cognitive science. An opinion of which is better is included based upon reasoned judgment. The three criteria discussed are simplicity, consistency, and universality.
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Augustine vs. Cognitive Science
Human nature is the about the “structure and innate tendencies shared by all human beings” (9). Aurelius Augustine and cognitive science have different views of structure and innate tendencies; however, they both provide important pieces to a philosophical enlightenment. St. Augustine focused on dualism, sin and a desire for God, whereas the cognitive scientist focuses on brain functionalism. While St. Augustine’s normative spirituality is great option for some people, cognitive science’s descriptive theory that the mind makes us human may be better for others.
Christianity and Neoplatonism influenced Augustine’s views. His view that God’s word is greater than man’s word is built on the foundation that the Bible is completely true, as it is God’s word. As a Christian, Augustine believed in God, creation, the fall of human nature (original sin), redemption, salvation, and the kingdom of heaven. Neoplatonism helped Augustine explain dualism. His view was that humans are composed of both bodies and souls. Augustine stated that when you die, the soul either enjoys everlasting salvation or suffers never-ending damnation, while the body is left behind in the Earth to rot. In addition, our souls give us our free will.
For Augustine, dualism, a desire for God, and sin were the three most important concepts of human nature. He adopted Plato’s idea of dualism and realized that having a soul was an important piece of human nature; however, Augustine believed that a desire for God was the most important idea. Humans want a close relationship with God, even if they are unaware of it. We are created for God, and therefore, we can only be happy when we have a close relationship with Him. Augustine states that we can become closer to God through love, wisdom, and our own will.
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