What Makes Us Human: Making as Searching
In a world where technology defines the boundaries of human potential, the question ‘What makes us human?’ has become a central debate. Emi Sakamoto ’28 explores how disciplines like physics, ceramics, and philosophy converge to reveal deeper truths about our existence. As associate communications professor Angèle Christin shared with me, their conversation transcended theory — revealing that creativity is not just an act but a process that challenges assumptions we take for granted.
Mabuchi’s journey from physicist to ceramicist illustrates how different fields can coexist as complementary forces. He explained that while physics is often seen as abstract, the physicality of clay firing reveals layers of craftsmanship. “The friction between clay and kiln is more than just heat; it’s a way of knowing,” he said. This process demands patience and understanding beyond mere technical skill. For Mabuchi, the creative cycle is a metaphor for exploring the unknown — seeking, relating, teaching, and writing — all while questioning the role of machines in shaping our lives.
One thing I found particularly fascinating is how art and science intersect. While physics offers universal laws, ceramics show us how materials behave in ways that defy conventional thought. Mabuchi drew parallels between woodfire ceramics and igneous processes, suggesting that understanding these relationships may help us navigate the complexities of AI. “AI doesn’t understand the world in the same way humans do,” he noted. Instead, it operates based on algorithms, which may not align with the intuitive, emotional aspects of human creativity.
Beyond the technical, there’s also a philosophical angle. Mabuchi reflected on the limitations of modern education, arguing that too much focus on algorithmic productivity risks overlooking the value of hands-on learning and artistic expression. “We’ve lost sight of what truly matters when we prioritize efficiency,” he said. To thrive in this era, we must find balance between innovation and tradition, ensuring that creativity remains a vital part of our cultural identity.
This dialogue about humanity reminds us that progress does not erase our pasts or diminish our values. What makes us human, according to Mabuchi, is not merely surviving or adapting — it’s discovering, creating, and expressing ourselves in ways that honor both the material and the intangible. In a world increasingly driven by automation, this synthesis of disciplines offers a vision of what it means to live fully within our own craft.
