Morin et la révolution biologique. Une lecture du paradigme perdu : la nature humaine (1973)

Abstract

The choice of the theme "Morin and the Biological Revolution : A Reading of The Lost Paradigm : Human Nature (1973)" is justified by our specific interest in the contemporary mutations of science and the accompanying epistemological debates. More specifically, our reflection aims to examine how Edgar Morin proposes to rethink the foundations of scientific knowledge through the paradigm of complexity. Indeed, complexity is understood in its contemporary sense as the integration of various forms of knowledge for a more generalized understanding. According to Morin, complexity is that which is "woven together" in a complementary fashion. First, he exposes the reductionist limits of the modern scientific paradigm and justifies complex thought as an interdisciplinary renewal of knowledge. Furthermore, on a scientific level, complexity promotes a reconciling intelligence that is open to pluralism and adaptive in the face of global uncertainty. Finally, regarding Africa, it promotes a decolonization of knowledge through endogenous practices, such as the palaver tree, thereby shedding light on contemporary socio-political issues. Morin sets out to define, as potential perspectives, the qualities required of a researcher in the process of constructing knowledge. The biological revolution indeed reveals an irreducible human complexity, requiring a method to revisit the foundations of reality. In this regard, a Morinian globalizing approach overcomes the constraints of the modern paradigm, leading to a profound and "non-mutilating" knowledge. Therefore, what are the limits of the modern scientific paradigm ? Can complexity constitute a relevant path toward renewed scientific knowledge ? What perspectives does this line of thought open for the world in general and for Africa in particular ? To address these concerns, we have opted for the historical-analytical method. This approach has allowed us to review the foundations of human complexity and reality to better grasp complex thought, while grounding our analysis in the biological revolution—the very core of this complexity. It subsequently allowed us to examine the implications of the author’s thought to question its relevance. This study confirms that Morin’s thought, rooted in the biological revolution, challenges the legitimacy of a complex paradigm in the face of African challenges. Indeed, Africa—often viewed as the continent of the "infancy of reason"—must delineate its principles to integrate complexity without disowning its traditions. In the current era, the problem of complexity is articulated alongside traditional values : here, liberty is bounded to preserve social order and avoid unrestrained license. Thus, an entangled form of knowledge, accessible to all, opens up an adapted future through complementary conceptual density.