Being Human

Synopsis

Being Human is the third book in the Staying Alive series of anthologies. Staying Alive and its sequel Being Alive have introduced many thousands of new readers to contemporary poetry. Being Human is a companion volume to those two books - a world poetry anthology offering poetry lovers an even broader, international selection of 'real poems for unreal times'. It was followed by a fourth volume, Staying Human: new poems for Staying Alive (2020). The range of poetry here complements that of the first two anthologies: hundreds of thoughtful and passionate poems about living in the modern world; poems that touch the heart, stir the mind and fire the spirit; poems about being human, about love and loss, fear and longing, hurt and wonder. There are more great poems from the 20th century as well as many recent poems of rare imaginative power from the first decade of the 21st century. But this book is also rare in reflecting the concerns of readers from all walks of life. Such has been the appeal of Staying Alive and Being Alive that many people have written not only to express their appreciation of these books, but also to share poems which have been important in their own lives. Being Human draws on this highly unusual publisher's mailbag, including many talismanic personal survival poems suggested by our readers.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Body

* Summary: Explores the human body as a complex and interconnected system, highlighting its physical and chemical processes.
* Example: Describes the digestive system, explaining how it breaks down food into nutrients and absorbs them for bodily functions.

Chapter 2: The Mind

* Summary: Examines the human brain, mind, and consciousness, discussing the relationship between neurological activity and mental processes.
* Example: Discusses the role of the amygdala in processing emotions, particularly fear and aggression.

Chapter 3: The Self

* Summary: Explores the concept of self, identity, and personal growth. It examines the formation of self-concept through social interactions and experiences.
* Example: Describes the "looking-glass self" theory, which suggests that our self-concept is shaped by how others perceive us.

Chapter 4: The Social Self

* Summary: Discusses human social behavior, communication, and relationships. It explores the influence of social norms on our actions and interactions.
* Example: Examines the concept of social groups and their impact on individual behavior, such as conformity and groupthink.

Chapter 5: The Emotional Self

* Summary: Focuses on human emotions, their physiological and social origins, and their impact on our thoughts and behaviors.
* Example: Describes the "fight-or-flight" response, which is triggered in situations of perceived threat or danger.

Chapter 6: The Moral Self

* Summary: Examines human morality, ethics, and values. It discusses the development of moral beliefs and the role of social and cultural factors in shaping them.
* Example: Explores the concept of "moral dilemmas," where individuals face conflicts between competing moral principles.

Chapter 7: The Spiritual Self

* Summary: Discusses the human search for meaning and purpose, including religious beliefs, spiritual practices, and the concept of transcendence.
* Example: Examines the role of meditation and prayer in fostering spiritual growth and connection.

Chapter 8: The Future

* Summary: Contemplates the future of humanity, considering advances in technology, the impact of globalization, and potential challenges.
* Example: Discusses the implications of artificial intelligence and genetic engineering on human existence and the need for ethical considerations in these areas.

Overall, "Being Human" provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the multifaceted nature of human existence, offering a deeper understanding of our physical, mental, emotional, and social selves.