The Concept of the “Complete Human” in the Legacy of Abai and Shakarim

On October 20, 2026, a seminar on the theme “The Path to the Complete Human” was held for second-year students at the Kazakh-American Free University. The event focused on the moral and philosophical legacy of Abai Kunanbayev and Shakarim Kudaiberdiyev, as well as an exploration of the spiritual values ​​that underpin the concept of the “Complete Human” (*Tolyq Adam*).

The primary objective of the seminar was to introduce students to the ideas of these Kazakh thinkers regarding the moral refinement of the individual—specifically the harmony between reason, will, and the heart—and the significance of conscience, justice, and compassion in human life.

During the session, students examined the core tenets of Abai’s seventeenth *Word of Edification* (*Qara Soz*), which depicts a debate between Reason, Will, and the Heart. The participants presented this work through a theatrical performance, illustrating the role each of these qualities plays in the development of an individual. Special emphasis was placed on Abai’s view that these elements must exist in harmonious unity, with the Heart serving as the guiding moral force.

The discussion continued with an examination of Shakarim Kudaiberdiyev’s philosophical treatise, *The Three Truths*. The students explored the concept of *ūjdan* (conscience), which the thinker linked to moral virtues such as moderation, justice, and compassion. The participants discussed why conscience serves as the essential internal compass for an individual when making decisions and taking actions.

To illustrate the theme, symbolic cards representing key spiritual and moral qualities were used. Through collaborative effort, the students gradually populated the outline of a human silhouette, constructing a composite image of the “complete human.”

The practical segment of the seminar was dedicated to discussing scenarios involving moral choices. The students analyzed various life scenarios, evaluated potential courses of action through the lenses of reason, justice, compassion, and conscience, articulated their own perspectives, and collaborated to find solutions to moral dilemmas.

At the conclusion of the session, the participants read the “Manifesto of the Perfect Human” and identified specific moral principles to guide them in their daily lives. The meeting was symbolically summarized by the following formula:

REASON + WILL + HEART + CONSCIENCE = THE PERFECT HUMAN

The educational session was conducted in an interactive format, incorporating theatrical elements, group work, and open discussion. It provided students with an opportunity not only to delve deeper into the philosophical legacy of Abai and Shakarim but also to reflect on personal responsibility, moral choices, and the significance of spiritual values ​​in contemporary society.

The core takeaway from the meeting was the realization that the pursuit of perfection lies not merely in the acquisition of knowledge or the development of one’s abilities, but, above all, in the capacity to act according to one’s conscience—demonstrating justice, compassion, and a sense of responsibility toward others.