Augustine of Hippo: 'Custom is second nature.'

Custom is second nature.

In his profound reflection on human behavior, Augustine of Hippo famously stated, "Custom is second nature." This insightful quote encapsulates the idea that our actions and habits, developed through repeated practice, become so ingrained in our being that they shape our character as if they were innate. Essentially, Augustine posits that customs, or learned behaviors, hold as much influence over our actions as our innate human nature does.The significance of this quote lies in its exploration of the interplay between human nature and learned behaviors. Human beings are born with certain inherent traits, tendencies, and inclinations that are part of our nature. However, these innate characteristics are not fixed and unchangeable. Augustine suggests that the customs we acquire through experience and repetition can become so deeply ingrained within us that they assume the power and influence of our very nature. In essence, these customs become a secondary, learned nature.To further engage the reader and delve into the philosophical implications of Augustine's quote, we can introduce the concept of existentialism and draw a comparison between the two ideas. Existentialism, as a philosophical school of thought, emphasizes the individual's freedom and responsibility to create their own meaning and essence in life. It argues that individuals are not bound by pre-determined nature or external factors but have the autonomy to shape their own existence through their choices and actions.While Augustine's notion of custom as second nature may seem to contradict existentialism at first glance, a deeper examination reveals an interesting parallel. Both perspectives acknowledge the transformative power of our actions and habits. Augustine emphasizes the assimilation of customs into our character, while existentialism focuses on the self-creation and self-definition that arises from the choices we make.However, a crucial distinction arises when considering the source of influence in these two concepts. Augustine's idea of custom as second nature suggests that our habits and learned behaviors have the potential to shape and mold our nature, effectively limiting our freedom. On the other hand, existentialism places an emphasis on personal agency and the freedom to choose one's own path. Existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre argue that humans are not predefined by any nature or custom, but rather have the ability to create their own nature through their conscious actions.This distinction between the two concepts opens up an intriguing philosophical debate. While custom may indeed have a powerful influence on our behavior, can we argue that it has the ability to override or redefine our inherent nature? Does our freedom lie in the ability to transcend the limitations imposed by custom, or do our habits merely reinforce and solidify our nature?Ultimately, it seems that both perspectives offer valuable insights into the complexity of human behavior. Augustine's quote reminds us of the profound impact that repeated actions and customs can have on shaping our character. Meanwhile, existentialism encourages us to reflect on the freedom we possess to transcend the limitations of custom and create our own essence.In conclusion, Augustine's quote, "Custom is second nature," invites contemplation on the relationship between our innate human nature and the customs we develop through experience. By comparing and contrasting Augustine's idea with the concept of existentialism, we uncover thought-provoking questions about the true extent of our agency and the role of custom in defining our nature. Embracing the complexity of these ideas allows us to explore the underlying philosophies that shape our understanding of ourselves and our actions, ultimately leading to a deeper appreciation of the intricacies of human existence.