Despite the seemingly relaxed confidence and carefree attitude suggested by the titles of my last three writings—2 Basic..., Hello and Goodbye, and Keep it Simple—the process behind them has been anything but simple. A recurring theme in my journal is that, although various sections appear independent of one another, they all ultimately confirm that knowledge is inherently interconnected.
Here's the situation: it has been nearly a month since my last piece, "Keep it Simple." However, I must admit—without pride—that I didn't keep it simple. But it wasn't just any complication; a persistent thought in my mind kept telling me that this piece, and everything since 2 basic..., marked the beginning of a learning journey that had to continue with a reflection on the "Human Factor."
No matter how much I tried to ignore this idea, it was impossible. I must write about the Human Factor before my journal returns to "normal."
How does one get from 2 Basic... to the Human Factor?
Let me summarize: everything begins with the cliché memento mori and an analysis of this idea from a Stoic perspective. Despite traditional interpretations—living recklessly or in fear—this phrase actually reminds us to live authentically and reflect on the legacy we leave behind.
However, delving deeper into this idea, we realize that memento mori invites us to think about the end of everything. Still, it is just as important not to lose sight of the small details that mark the beginning and closure of our different life stages. This is where Keep it Simple becomes a turning point, exploring how genuine hospitality is not about ostentation but authenticity. A great example of this is Sen no Rikyū, who demonstrated it through subtle gestures that reflected simplicity and respect.
At first glance, these writings may seem disconnected. However, there is a recurring theme in all of them: authenticity. This is precisely where the emphasis on its essential role in hospitality comes into play.
Where did I overcomplicate things?
In trying to define human beings in just a few words. Not an easy task, let's be honest. Some people dedicate their lives to understanding human existence and still don't succeed. And that's logical: one day, we suddenly become aware of ourselves and the world around us, and we simply have to “keep going." There is no one here with "work experience" in life; we are all beginners and learning.
In this learning process, one thing is sure: making mistakes and learning from them.
Of course, in the world of knowledge, specific shortcuts can make the path more efficient: having a mentor, learning from role models, taking classes, and reading books, among many others. But they all have one thing in common: the "Human Factor.”
What is the “Human Factor”?
In my opinion, the "Human Factor" can be summed up in a phrase I wrote in The Cliff and the Dragon:
"At the end of the day, imperfection is our seal of authenticity in this chaotic game of existence."
In Risk of infection! I once mentioned:
"Despite years of human evolution, our instincts still largely govern us. Our brains contain three fundamental structures: the neocortex, the mammalian brain, and the reptilian brain. The difference between humans and beasts is that we can rise above our instincts. However, one impulse will always remain: survival."
Humanity has evolved in many ways in the last century, but at its core, it remains that prehistoric nomad that hunted and gathered to survive. Conditions have changed, yes, but the essence remains intact.
Oral Tradition and Its Impact
I am not a historian, but it is common knowledge that in ancient times, oral tradition was the primary means of transmitting knowledge. And, surprise, it still is. In fact, it is something inherent to human nature.
UNESCO (n.d.) explains that oral traditions and expressions encompass various spoken forms. These traditions transmit knowledge, cultural and social values, and collective memory. They are essential for keeping cultures alive, and their preservation depends on maintaining their presence in social life and fostering intergenerational interaction.
Why should we care?
Although oral tradition remains present in many aspects, it has been impacted by writing and other forms of communication. Today, more than ever, we must pay attention and understand what it truly means to be human.
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a novelty; every day, new ways to use it to make our lives easier emerge. But in this world, nothing is truly free—not even the "free" space on a bingo card because you still paid for it when you bought it.
The goal is not to demonize AI but to understand how to use it best. Failing to comprehend the power and impact of technological advancements means taking things for granted and forgetting the foundation that brought us to this point.
A clear example is Maslow's Pyramid. Right in the center is the need for affiliation, the connection with others. Today, we often turn to virtual social spaces due to physical distance or to avoid discomfort. This is excellent for broadening our horizons, but a message or a video call will never compare to an in-person interaction. If the need to make virtual relationships more human didn't exist, we wouldn't have developed virtual reality or augmented reality.
We have been running without a clear goal. In this lack of vision, we have lost sight of what truly matters… what makes us human.
What do you think: Evolution or tradition—Is there really a choice?
¡Until next Time!
Satoricha ~
References
UNESCO. (n.d). Tradiciones y expresiones orales, incluido el idioma como vehículo del patrimonio cultural inmaterial. UNESCO. https://ich.unesco.org/es/tradiciones-y-expresiones-orales-00053
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