The instrumental stance describes the unique approach of homo sapiens to view things as instruments–or means–to achieve some end or goal.1 Here we will further explore this phenomenon in terms of the role it has played in the rise of civilization, the structure of the rationality it embodies, and its contrast with the non-instrumental.
Continue reading “The Instrumental Stance: Analysis and Contrast”Month: August 2019
Introduction to the Instrumental Stance
Investigation of the instrumental stance1 is necessary to understand the contemporary world. Various terms may be used to describe this phenomenon, such as (yet not limited to) means/end rationalism, instrumental reason or rationality, utilitarianism,2 or utility. I will simply refer to it as the instrumental stance, as it describes a specific “stance” or approach to the world.
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