What Does 'Natural' Mean: Definitions and Contexts
When discussing the term 'natural,' it is important to understand its various definitions and how it is used in different contexts. This article provides a comprehensive overview of what 'natural' means, its precise definition, and its alternative connotations in common usage.
What is the Precise Definition of Natural?
The word 'natural' generally refers to anything that originates from nature, free from artificial or human intervention. By strict definition, natural refers to phenomena that occur without human input, interference, or man-made components or causes. The term is often contrasted with unnatural or supernatural, where the latter would be an oxymoron as anything supernatural originates outside the realm of nature.
For example: Beavers building dams is considered a natural occurrence because it is driven by their instincts and biologically programmed behaviors. Conversely, humans building dams is categorized as an unnatural event or human construct, as it involves deliberate planning and engineering.
Common Usage and Connotations of Natural
While the term 'natural' by its strict definition refers to phenomena arising from nature, in everyday language, it can have additional connotations.
People often advise others to "be yourself" and not be "unnatural." This usage of 'natural' pertains to one's inherent qualities and behaviors, suggesting genuineness and authenticity. Cultural and social norms also influence how this term is perceived, making it a subjective concept.
Example: A performer might be told, "Just be yourself on stage. Don't try to act unnatural or forced." This advice encourages authenticity and true expression over artificiality.
The Adjective: Naturalist
The adjective 'natural' takes on a specialized meaning in the context of naturalists, which are individuals who study nature or natural history. Historically, naturalists were generalists who explored and documented a wide range of natural phenomena. However, in contemporary times, specialization has become more common.
Types of Naturalists: Amateur Naturalists: These are individuals who engage in natural history studies as a hobby or personal interest. Examples might include birdwatchers, botanizers, or wildlife enthusiasts. Professional Naturalists: These individuals often work as researchers or educators, studying specific aspects of nature, such as botany, zoology, or geology.
Another meaning of 'naturalist' in a broader philosophical context involves the concept of naturalism. This proposition suggests that everything is natural and that there is no supernatural level or aspect to reality. There are two primary forms of naturalism:
Methodological Naturalism
Methodological naturalism refers to the principle that scientific inquiry should be based on natural explanations and relies on natural phenomena and processes. Scientists must assume natural causes, as supernatural phenomena are beyond the scope of empirical investigation. This form of naturalism is essential for scientific progress and is widely accepted in the scientific community.
Metaphysical Naturalism
Metaphysical naturalism takes a broader philosophical stance, asserting that there is no supernatural aspect to reality. This position is more philosophical in nature, extending beyond scientific method to a broader worldview that excludes the existence of the supernatural.
Philosophical Implications: Metaphysical naturalism actively denies the existence of anything beyond the natural world, while methodological naturalism operates on a pragmatic basis, assuming natural explanations until supernatural ones can be verified.
Conclusion
Understanding the term 'natural' requires examining its origins, precise definition, and various uses in everyday language. From its strict definition rooted in natural phenomena to its more nuanced connotations and philosophical implications, 'natural' remains a multifaceted and complex term that continues to shape our understanding of the world around us.
Keywords
Keywords: natural, naturalist, natural history