User:Goethean/Human4


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Humans, or human beings, are bipedal primates biologically classified as the mammalian species Homo sapiens (Latin for "wise man" or "thinking man") under the family Hominidae. Humanity, in addition to being a collective term for all human beings, refers to that which distinguishes human beings from other animals.

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Humans have a highly developed brain capable of abstract reasoning, language, and introspection. This, combined with an erect body carriage that frees their upper limbs for manipulating objects, has allowed humans to make greater use of tools than any other species of animal.

Like most primates, humans are by nature social. However, humans are particularly adept at utilizing systems of communication for self-expression and the exchange of ideas. Humans create complex social structures composed of co-operating and competing groups, ranging in scale from nations to individual families, and social interaction between humans has established a variety of social norms, rituals, traditions, values, laws, and ethics which form the basis of human society. Humans also have a unique appreciation for beauty and aesthetics which, combined with the human desire for self-expression, has led to cultural innovations such as art, literature and music.

Humans are also noted for their desire to understand and influence the world around them, seeking to explain and manipulate natural phenomena through science, religion, philosophy and mythology. This natural curiosity has led to the development of advanced tools and skills; humans are the only species on earth to build fires, cook their food, clothe themselves, and use countless other technologies. It has also led to the exploration of spiritual concepts such as the soul and God, and has contributed to the self-awareness of humans, leading to self-reflection and the development of distinct personalities.

Biologically classified
To continue the question, why do we need to specify "biologically" in a phrase such as "bipedal primate classified as the mammalian species Homo Sapiens?" Saying that it is "classified as the mammalian species Homo Sapiens" requires that the classification be biological because of the terms used. In fact, the articles they link to clearly state that they are biological classifications.

As a referrence, the Primate article specifies that it is a "biological Order" because the term "Order" appears in other context. In contrast, there is no need for such a qualifier when working with a species, because the term "species" doesn't have another usage. Avedomni 00:52, 24 March 2006 (UTC)