Sure, here's an International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essay outline focused on the concept of being human. This topic can delve into philosophical, psychological, and biological perspectives, providing a comprehensive analysis.

Extended Essay Outline: What Does It Mean to Be Human?

Title: Understanding the Essence of Humanity: A Multidisciplinary Exploration Research Question: What does it mean to be human?

Abstract

Brief overview of the essay. Key points and findings. Summary of the approach and methodology.

Introduction

Explanation of the research question. Importance of exploring the concept of being human. Overview of the multidisciplinary approach.

Chapter 1: Philosophical Perspectives

Historical Views: Overview of how ancient philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle perceived humanity. Existentialism: Discussion of existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger and their views on human existence and essence. Modern Philosophy: Examination of contemporary philosophical ideas on what defines humanity, including the works of philosophers like Peter Singer and Martha Nussbaum.

Chapter 2: Psychological Perspectives

Developmental Psychology: Understanding human development from childhood to adulthood and how it shapes our concept of self. Cognitive Psychology: Exploration of human consciousness, thought processes, and self-awareness. Humanistic Psychology: The contributions of Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow in understanding human needs and self-actualization.

Chapter 3: Biological Perspectives

Evolutionary Biology: Examination of human evolution and what biological traits make us unique. Genetics: Understanding the genetic makeup that defines humans. Neuroscience: Insights into the human brain and its role in defining our behavior and cognitive abilities.

Chapter 4: Sociocultural Perspectives

Anthropology: Study of human societies, cultures, and their impact on the concept of being human. Sociology: Exploration of social structures, roles, and identities. Cultural Diversity: The role of cultural differences in shaping our understanding of humanity.

Chapter 5: Ethical and Moral Dimensions

Moral Philosophy: Discussion on ethics and moral reasoning as key aspects of being human. Rights and Responsibilities: Examination of human rights and what they say about our shared humanity. Global Challenges: Addressing contemporary issues like climate change, inequality, and technology's impact on our humanity.

Conclusion

Summary of findings from the different perspectives. Synthesis of how these perspectives contribute to a holistic understanding of what it means to be human. Reflection on the implications of these findings for the future of humanity. References List of all sources and references used in the essay. This outline provides a structured approach to exploring the multifaceted concept of being human, integrating insights from various disciplines to offer a comprehensive analysis.