Definition

Noun: The fundamental, inherent qualities and characteristics that are shared by all people. It refers to the essential patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are considered universal to humankind.

Usage

The term "human nature" is used to discuss the innate, shared psychological and behavioral traits of people. It is often employed in philosophical, psychological, and everyday discussions about what motivates people or why people act in certain predictable ways. - It is typically used as a singular, uncountable noun. - It often follows determiners like "the," "our," or "human."

Examples

• Philosophers have debated the concept of human nature for centuries.
• Greed and compassion are both considered part of human nature.
• Her novel is a profound exploration of human nature.
• You can't change human nature.

Advanced Usage

• In philosophical contexts: Used to discuss essentialist views of what constitutes a human being, often contrasted with nurture or culture.
• In observational statements: Used to explain or justify common behaviors as being innate and unavoidable.

Variants and Related Words

• Human condition (n): The characteristics, key events, and situations which compose the essentials of human existence, such as birth, growth, emotionality, aspiration, conflict, and mortality. This is a broader term often encompassing the state of human nature within a societal or existential context.

Synonyms

• Inherent character
• Essential qualities (of humanity)
• Innate disposition

Idioms and Common Phrases

• To go against human nature: To act in a way that contradicts fundamental human instincts or desires.
• It's only human nature: A phrase used to excuse or explain a common, often flawed, behavior as being natural and expected.

Noun

1. the shared psychological attributes of humankind that are assumed to be shared by all human beings
   • a great observer of human nature