The Dual Nature of the Ubiquitous Human
Modern philosophy and religious thought successfully integrate two dimensions of human existence, where a person appears simultaneously as a concrete, tangible individual and as a universal symbol of the eternal quest for freedom and truth. On one hand, we see him as a living being capable of experiencing joys and pains, making decisions, and bearing responsibility for his life. This material nature constitutes what governs our everyday life. On the other hand, the person emerges as an image that flows into the realms of science, art, and social relationships – an eternal seeker of truth, a symbol of infinite evolution, and the drive to break free from limitations. This dual perspective allows us to appreciate both our physical constraints and the grand strength of spirit that propels the constant search for the meaning of life. It is precisely this blend of concrete existence and universal ideals that makes the concept of the ubiquitous human so appealing and relevant in an era of change.How is the concept of "the ubiquitous human" defined in contemporary religious and philosophical ideas? In modern philosophical and religious thought, the concept of the "ubiquitous human" is understood as a reflection of the dual nature in which a human exists as both a concrete, physical being and a universal ideal permeating all areas of life. On one hand, emphasis is placed on his empirical, corporeal essence – the human one can see, hear, and experience in everyday life, suffering, rejoicing, and struggling with the limitations of existence. As it is stated:"A man of flesh and blood, who is born, suffers, and dies – primarily dies; a man who eats, drinks, entertains, sleeps, thinks, loves – the man we can see and hear… It is precisely this concrete man of flesh and blood who is both the subject and, at the same time, the main object of all philosophy" (source: 1076_5378.txt).On the other hand, the modern interpretation of man transcends the physical dimension. He is seen as the bearer of eternal aspirations for freedom, the search for truth, and control over his own destiny – a participant in endless evolution, with his presence felt in all spheres of human existence, from science to art and social relationships. This is encapsulated in the idea that "man is the eternal problem, one that is eternally solved and which will never be solved," where the entire course of history is shaped by his pursuit of liberation and universal freedom (source: 188_938.txt).Thus, the idea of the "ubiquitous human" unites two levels: the concrete, material aspect of individual existence and the universal, all-encompassing nature of the human spirit, as expressed in the constant search for meaning, freedom, and truth. This dual view allows us to consider both the inherent limitations of our being and the tremendous vigor of spirit that drives human existence.Supporting citation(s):"A man of flesh and blood, who is born, suffers, and dies … It is precisely this concrete man of flesh and blood who is both the subject and, at the same time, the main object of all philosophy" (source: 1076_5378.txt)"Man is the eternal problem, one that is eternally solved and which will never be solved. The whole history of humanity is nothing but the evolution of freedom…" (source: 188_938.txt)