Society requires order to function from "summary" of The New Science of Politics by Eric Voegelin
The assertion that society requires order to function is a proposition that has occupied the minds of political theorists for centuries. From Plato to Hobbes, thinkers have grappled with the question of how to maintain social cohesion in the face of human nature's inherent tendency towards disorder. Eric Voegelin, in his seminal work 'The New Science of Politics', offers a unique perspective on this age-old problem. Voegelin argues that the key to understanding the need for order in society lies in recognizing the fundamental nature of human beings as rational creatures. Unlike animals, who are guided solely by instinct, humans possess the capacity for reason, which allows them to make choices based on principles of morality and justice. However, this very capacity for reason also makes humans prone to disorder, as individuals may prioritize their own interests over the common good. In order to prevent society from descending into chaos, it is necessary to establish a system of rules and norms that govern human behavior. This system, according to Voegelin, must be based on principles that are universally accepted and understood, so as to ensure the stability and sustainability of the social order. Without such a system, individuals would be free to act according to their own whims, leading to conflict and discord within the community. Furthermore, Voegelin emphasizes the importance of hierarchy in maintaining social order. He argues that every society must have a clear structure of authority, with leaders who are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the common good. Without this hierarchy, individuals would be left to fend for themselves, leading to a breakdown in social cohesion and cooperation.- Voegelin's analysis of the concept that society requires order to function sheds light on the intricate relationship between human nature, reason, and social organization. By recognizing the need for rules, norms, and hierarchy, societies can ensure their own survival and prosperity in the face of inherent human tendencies towards disorder.
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