In the realm of human existence, the question of what constitutes our essence has long been a subject of philosophical inquiry and debate. Amidst the rapid advancements in technology, it becomes increasingly crucial to explore the multifaceted criteria that define our humanity. This is the premise of Emi Sakamoto's biweekly column, "What Makes Us Human?" which delves into the interdisciplinary exploration of this profound question. The author's recent conversation with Hideo Mabuchi, a professor of applied physics and ceramicist, offers a captivating perspective on this very topic.
Mabuchi's unique background, combining the hard sciences and the arts, provides a fascinating lens through which to examine the essence of human creativity. His journey into the world of ceramics and woodfiring reveals a profound understanding of the interplay between theory and practice. The process of firing ceramics in a wood-burning kiln, as Mabuchi describes, is a metaphor for the depth of knowledge and craft expertise that can be pursued endlessly. This pursuit of perfection is not about the final form but the transformative journey, where friction and challenges are integral to the creation process.
The author's curiosity about the connection between physics and ceramics leads Mabuchi to an intriguing revelation. He explains how the study of electron microscopy has unexpectedly contributed to his understanding of woodfire ceramics surfaces. The surface color formation and woodfire processes are linked to igneous petrology and volcanology, where the aluminosilicate melt, akin to lava or magma, cools and forms minerals, determining the color and texture. This interdisciplinary approach highlights the beauty of mutual shaping, where the lessons of one discipline find applications in another.
Mabuchi's concept of the 'creative cycle' is a thought-provoking framework. It involves seeking and making, relating and reflecting, and teaching and writing. This process, as he explains, is about getting close to the desired outcome and satisfying curiosity. It challenges the notion that thinking is solely algorithmic, emphasizing the human urge to act and create. Mabuchi's perspective on making as searching resonates deeply, suggesting that the creative process is a means to discover and realize our unique voices.
The author's exploration of the creative process and its connection to craft and art is particularly insightful. Mabuchi's emphasis on the importance of hard work, play, and appreciation in the creative journey is a reminder that the process is as valuable as the product. The distinction between superficial captivation and deep aesthetic appreciation is crucial, as the former is antithetical to the creative process. Mabuchi's perspective on art as an exercise in diversity and playfulness adds a layer of complexity to the discussion.
As AI continues to advance, Mabuchi offers a unique perspective on the future of humanity. He suggests that the development of capable AI should prompt a reevaluation of what it means to be human, beyond conventional economic productivity. The author's comparison of this evolution to a Darwinian race is intriguing, emphasizing the need to rediscover our humanity in the face of AI. Mabuchi's optimism, rooted in the Cartesian philosophy, highlights the importance of the arts, craft, creativity, and the humanities in a rapidly changing world.
In the end, Mabuchi's answer to the question of what makes us human is a celebration of curiosity. He posits that it is the urge to explore and satisfy curiosity, independent of survival instincts or social conditioning, that defines our humanity. This perspective, aligned with Eckhart Tolle's philosophy, encourages a dynamic and ever-evolving understanding of our essence. As Mabuchi states, the question of what makes us human is a journey, a process of seeking, making, and reflecting, which we must embrace and cherish.
