Adult - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Adult: A state of being—or is it merely a construct?—enshrouded in expectations, responsibilities, and the lingering echoes of childhood’s end. Often conflated with age or maturity, its definition proves surprisingly elusive, begging the question: what truly signifies an adult?
The seeds of adulthood are sown deep within the past. While pinpointing a precise origin proves difficult, the concept of being an adult can be traced back to ancient philosophies, influencing not only Western, but also Eastern thought. Aristotle explored virtues and the responsibilities of citizens, essential precepts for those considered full members of society. As civilization progressed, the Roman concept of maior defined legal and civic maturity, signifying a step beyond adolescence. Through the Age of Enlightenment, figures like Immanuel Kant emphasized rationalism of moral philosophy, and intellectual autonomy as cornerstones of adulthood, marking a shift from mere biological or legal definitions to philosophical considerations. Such iconic figures as Peter Singer have tested the boundaries of what we consider adult behavior through such thought experiments as the trolley problem.
Over the centuries, the idea of Adult has undergone a fascinating evolution. The Industrial Revolution demanded a workforce conditioned for discipline and deferred gratification, subtly reshaping social expectations. The rise of psychology in the 20th century brought new perspectives, from Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development to theories of cognitive maturity that challenged earlier rational thinking paradigms. These evolving interpretations fostered a complex interplay between societal demand and individual development, raising ever-present questions about free will, responsibility, and the essence of personal moral obligation. The cognitive bias of overconfidence could be argued as playing into the narrative that one has achieved adulthood, yet still falls prey to this common fallacy on par with youths who have yet to have experienced sufficient opportunities to be proven wrong. There is a certain intrigue in the irony of an adult's nihililism.
The legacy of Adult echoes through our legal systems, economic structures, and even our personal identities. Contemporary discussions about "adulting"—a verb describing mundane tasks often associated with independence—highlight a lingering tension between the perceived ideal and the often-messy reality. The exploration of subjective morality, meta-ethics and objective moral principles are all ways that modern society grapples with what "adult" truly means in modernity. As we navigate an era of rapid technological and social change, the notion of Adult continues to morph. But how useful can any specific paradigm be when grappling with concerns like the ethics of automation or, say, the ethical obligations in AI? Are we truly defined by our age, our actions, or something more profound—perhaps a willingness to confront the inherent complexities of existence?