I think this question of what it means to be human is a very hard question to answer. Personally I think it is easier to say all the things that sets humans apart from animals rather then just giving a definition on what being human is. I think it is the emotions that we are able to have that show what humanity is. Unlike animals we feel guilt, sorrow, regret, and we are the only species that can feel embarrassed. Our emotions and our thoughts are at a deeper level then animals. I think that being a "human" means much more then just in the biological/scientific sense. Being human is having the ability to feel and empathize with someone during trying or difficult times. Biologically someone can be "human" without having human characteristics. I believe serial killers, child abusers and other violent criminals fall into this category. These people don't have a conscience, they don't have the same emotions that other humans do. To me, humanity is the emotions we have and the way treat other human beings. Another part of humanity is the need to be with others to have relationships with other human beings. Honestly, I think humans need other humans.

My passionate sense of social justice and social responsibility has always contrasted oddly with my pronounced lack of need for direct contact with other human beings and human communities.- Albert Einstein