Philosophy, Societal Development and the Future of Humanity

Abstract

This paper undertakes a philosophical consideration of societal development and the future of humanity. With the alarming rate of development our globe has witnessed, most notably in science and technology, the future of humanity has become a significant matter of much interest. This is because today's events will determine the nature of humanity's future. This paper adopts the philosophical method of exposition and critical analysis and contends that for humanity to realize an admirable bright future, the actions of humans today must be predicated on moral values that guarantee respect for the dignity of the human person. This is against the backdrop of the insatiable quest for material gains, power, pleasure, comfort, and freedom, which has resulted in man's exploitation, alienation, suppression, and oppression by his fellow man. As a result, humans are used by their fellow humans as a means to an end and not as ends. This, undoubtedly, is injurious to society and would likely lead to an austere future if unchecked.