Anthropology and Human Nature

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'sacramental awareness'?

The desire to understand the mysteries of the universe and the meaning of life.

A deep understanding of human sexuality and its role in the world.

The ability to recognize and appreciate the subtle signs of God's presence in everyday life. (correct)

The belief in the sacredness of all creation and the interconnectedness of all things.

What is the key difference between 'sexuality' and 'sexualization'?

Sexuality is about physical attraction, while sexualization is about emotional intimacy.

Sexuality is about feelings and desires, while sexualization is about objectification and evaluation. (correct)

Sexuality is a personal experience, while sexualization is a social construct.

Sexuality is a natural instinct, while sexualization is a learned behavior.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a 'living sacrament'?

A strong sense of individualism and self-reliance. (correct)

Selfless devotion to helping others.

A deep understanding and appreciation of God's creation.

The ability to see the sacred in the everyday world.

What is the primary difference between atheism and agnosticism?

Atheism is a denial of God's existence, while agnosticism is the uncertainty about God's existence. Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of the word 'symballien'?

The state of being thrown together or in constant motion. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Stole represent in the context of a priest's role?

Authority to absolve sins and represent repentance Signup and view all the answers

Which symbol signifies God’s presence in the various sacraments?

A Cross or Crucifix Signup and view all the answers

What does the Anointing of the Sick represent?

God’s loving concern for the ill and a sacrament of hope Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Laying on of the Hands in Holy Orders?

A Church authorization for the anointed to perform specific services Signup and view all the answers

What does the purpose of the New Covenant primarily remind us of?

The sacrifice of Jesus Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary cause of sacramental dullness?

Being too busy with daily life Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes sacramental awareness?

Listening and looking deep into the world around you Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a non-symbolic sign?

A red traffic light indicating 'stop' Signup and view all the answers

Which color is typically associated with danger or passion?

Red Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a petitionary prayer?

To request something from God Signup and view all the answers

Which action can carry symbolic significance in a narrative?

A physical journey Signup and view all the answers

Which type of prayer is primarily focused on worshipping God with love and reverence?

Adoration Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of symbolism in literature?

Portraying a forest as a place of danger Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a parable?

To convey a moral lesson through a comparison Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of a parable involves a transformation within the characters?

A parable contains a crisis Signup and view all the answers

In which parable does a character exemplify unconditional love and forgiveness?

The Prodigal Son Signup and view all the answers

What does the Sower parable primarily illustrate about people's interactions with God's message?

Diverse receptions to a single message Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a characteristic of Jesus' parables?

They often use everyday events for comparison Signup and view all the answers

What is a key requirement for entering the Kingdom of God as highlighted through parables?

Undergoing a conversion or change of heart Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Good Samaritan' parable teach about societal boundaries?

Compassion and kindness transcend societal borders Signup and view all the answers

Why did Jesus use exotic and confusing descriptions in his parables about the Kingdom of God?

To show the Kingdom of God is unlike anything known Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of human nature does anthropology mainly focus on?

The evolutionary history of humans Signup and view all the answers

According to Thomas Hobbes, what is the natural state of humans?

Selfish and destructive when unchecked Signup and view all the answers

In Freud's model, what role does the Ego play?

It mediates between the Id and the Superego Signup and view all the answers

What did Friedrich Nietzsche argue drives all human activity?

The Will to Power Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the focus of sociology in understanding human nature?

Social relationships and their institutions Signup and view all the answers

Which notion suggests that humans are primarily spiritual beings?

Humans as spirits trapped inside a body Signup and view all the answers

What concept is central to Freud's understanding of human behavior?

The interplay of Id, Ego, and Superego Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of unchecked selfishness, according to Hobbes?

A state of continual conflict Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Synoptic Gospels' refer to, as explained in the text?

The first three Gospels, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, are called Synoptic because they share a similar view of Jesus and use common sources during their writing process. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between the Gospel of Mark and the Gospel of Matthew?

Matthew focuses on what Jesus said, while Mark focuses on what Jesus did. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Mary's 'yes' to the angel?

Mary's 'yes' symbolizes her acceptance of God's will and her unwavering faith, illustrating her role as Jesus' first and greatest disciple. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Pentecost' event commemorate in the Christian faith?

It commemorates the moment the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, giving them the power to preach the Gospel and establish the Church. Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of 'Metanoia' as described in the text?

Metanoia refers to a complete transformation of one's life, moving from darkness and sin to light and holiness, becoming more like God. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the Apostle's Creed, as presented in the text?

To provide a concise summary of the central beliefs of Christianity, highlighting the core doctrines of faith that unify believers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Nicene Creed, as discussed in the text?

To solidify the concept of the Holy Trinity, affirming the belief in God as a single entity existing in three distinct persons. Signup and view all the answers

What is the essence of the doctrine of 'Perpetual Virginity' as it relates to Mary, Mother of God?

It states that Mary remained a virgin throughout her life, even after giving birth to Jesus. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'Immaculate Conception' as described in the text?

It refers to the belief that Mary was conceived without the stain of Original Sin. Signup and view all the answers

What is the connection between 'wind' and the 'Holy Spirit' in the text?

In biblical texts, wind is often used as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, reflecting its power and transformative nature. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Human Nature

Anthropology: studies human beings worldwide, focusing on evolutionary history, behavior adaptation, and communication.
Sociology: examines social relationships, including crime, religion, family, and the state.
Psychology: analyzes mental processes and behaviors, including memories, dreams, thoughts, and emotions. Human behavior is viewed as evidence for brain function.

Secular Approaches to Human Nature

Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679): humans are naturally selfish, leading to a "war" of all against all, where life is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short."
Sigmund Freud (1856-1936): a constant struggle between the Id's primal instincts, the Ego's mediating role, and the Superego's moral compass.
Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900): human activity is driven by the Will to Power, with superior individuals dominating the inferior.

Three Notions of the Human Being

Humans are spirits trapped inside a body: some believe humans are primarily spiritual beings, but their bodies restrict their potential.
Humans have no spiritual dimension: others believe humans are simply sophisticated animals without a soul or spiritual nature.
Humans are united in body and spirit: a Catholic approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness and equal importance of both body and spirit.

Christian Anthropology

To be human is to be a person created in God's image and likeness.
The person is essentially good but capable of evil, deserving of dignity and respect.
The whole person (body, mind, spirit) is to be cherished, developed, and cared for.
Life is lived best in community and partnership with others
Each person has inalienable rights, freedoms, and responsibilities.
People are capable of lifelong growth and creating things.
People have an innate sense of morality and choose right over wrong.
Humans are called to love and be loved, working for justice and peace, and having a purpose that transcends their individual lives.

The Seven Traits of Human Beings

Humans are created in God's image.

Genesis, the Creation Stories, & the Trinity

Humans are God's creation, having a relationship with animals and other people.
Humans were made from earth and breath.
God created humans as good beings capable of both good and evil (free will).
Humans are male and female, with equal value.

The Gospels

Gospels are "Good News" about Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke): similar accounts of Jesus' life.
Mark is the earliest Gospel.
Matthew emphasises Jesus as a teacher.
Luke highlights Jesus' compassion.
John emphasizes Jesus as divine.

Who Jesus Was

Perpetual Virgin: Mary remained a virgin throughout life.
Immaculate Conception: Mary was preserved from Original Sin.

Mary, Mother of God

May is dedicated to Mary.
Catholics pray the Rosary on Mary's behalf.
Pope Francis instituted a new Marian feast day.

The Holy Spirit & the Pentecost

Holy Spirit: the third person of the Trinity.
Pentecost Sunday: the Holy Spirit came to the Apostles.
The Hebrew word "Spirit" also means “wind”.

The Seven Sacraments

Baptism: initiation into the Church; removing Original Sin.
Eucharist: celebrating Jesus' sacrifice
Confirmation: expressing faith
Reconciliation: forgiving sins.
Anointing of the Sick: providing healing and comfort.
Holy Orders: ordaining leaders within the Church.
Marriage: uniting a couple in God's love.

The Parables & the Sacraments

Parables: stories used by Jesus to teach about God's kingdom.
Kingdom of God: a community and society where God comes first.

Human Dignity: humans are sacred, with inherent dignity.
Rights and Responsibilities: human dignity is protected through rights and responsibilities.
Peace: resolving conflict through dialogue.
Option for the Poor and Vulnerable: prioritizing the poor and vulnerable.
Solidarity: being in community with all people.
Common Good: contributing to the good of all members of society.
Role of the Government: promoting human dignity, rights, and common good.
Stewardship of Creation: protecting people and the planet responsibly.
Dignity of Work: fair wages and safe working conditions.
Participation: everyone has a right to participate in community.

Culture and the Influences of our Society

Individualism: emphasis on the self over community in Western culture.
Media: shapes perceptions and influences beliefs.
Consumerism: preoccupation with acquiring material goods.
Sexuality: how societies view and treat sexual feelings and behaviours.
Pornography: objectifies people and violates human dignity
You Shall Not Murder: objectifying and denying someone their full potential and humanity.

Effective Communication

Clear and concise language.
Respect other's feelings and opinions.
Use a problem-solving approach.

Identity

Self-esteem: thoughts, emotions, and opinions of oneself.
Self-understanding: our culture tends to depict self as isolated from others and separate from the body.

Key Terms

Freedom: power rooted in reason and will.
Literal Thinking: understanding texts in a straightforward manner.
Symbolic Thinking: understanding texts through representations.
Secularism: a worldview that rejects or minimizes religion.
Anthropology: the study of humankind.
Creation: the act of God bringing the world into existence
Self-esteem: awareness of one's worth.

Salvation, Forgiveness of Sins, Atheism, Agnosticism, & Love to Self

Salvation: forgiveness for sins.
Symballien: Greek – “thrown together”
Atheism: belief that God doesn't exist.
Agnosticism: uncertainty about the existence of God.
Love to Self: self-love is equal to love for others.
Synoptic: “taking the same view”.
Sacraments: outward signs of inward faith.
Church: place for public Christian worship.
Vocation: God's call to individuals.
Culture: shared customs, beliefs, and values.
Metaphor: a non-literal comparison of unlike things.
Materialism: philosophical belief that only matter exists.

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Description

Explore the complex dimensions of human nature through the lenses of anthropology, sociology, and psychology. Delve into the theories of philosophers like Hobbes, Freud, and Nietzsche to understand different perspectives on human behavior and existence. This quiz will challenge your understanding of what it means to be human.