embodied spirit

Embodied Spirit in Christian Philosophy

• The term "embodied spirit" in Christian philosophy refers to the unique human nature, where a spiritual soul (mind, intellect, and will) is incorporated into a physical body. This concept suggests that humans are not simply bodies with souls, but rather unified beings where spirit and matter are intrinsically connected.

• Understanding the human person as an "embodied spirit" is crucial because it recognizes the interconnectedness of our physical and spiritual aspects. This view influences our understanding of human dignity, morality, and even the purpose of life.

Aristotle vs. Plato on the Human Person

• Aristotle's view of the human person differs from Plato's in its emphasis on the unity of body and soul. Unlike Plato, Aristotle did not see the soul as separate from the body, but rather as the "form" of the body, giving it life and function. This perspective emphasizes the embodied nature of human existence.

• Plato believed that the soul is immortal and exists separately from the body, only temporarily housed in the body during life. He viewed the body as a hindrance to the soul's pursuit of true knowledge and virtue.

Key Implications of Embodied Spirit

• Viewing the human person as an embodied spirit implies that we are not just spiritual beings, but also physical beings. This understanding influences how we value our bodies and how we approach issues of healthcare, ethics, and sexuality.

Aristotle's Philosophical Backdrop

• Aristotle's ideas about the embodied spirit were heavily influenced by the philosophical account of Plato. Plato's ideas about the soul and its relationship to the body provided a framework for Aristotle's own exploration of human nature.

The Essence of 'Materialized' in Embodied Spirit

• The term "materialized" in the context of "embodied spirit" refers to the integration of the spiritual soul within the material realm. This suggests that the soul is not just a disembodied essence but rather a spiritual force that gives form and life to the physical body.

Embodied Spirit's Emphasis on Human Nature

• The phrase "embodied spirit" emphasizes the integration of the spiritual and physical aspects of human nature. It highlights that humans are not simply souls trapped in bodies, but rather unified beings where mind and body work in concert.

Plato's View on Body and Soul

• Plato believed that the soul and body are distinct entities temporarily united in the human person. He saw the soul as independent of the body, capable of existing even after the body dies.

Location of the Rational Soul in Plato's Philosophy

• Plato located the rational soul, responsible for thought, reason, and judgment, in the head. This location reflected the philosophical belief that the intellect was the highest faculty of the human soul.

Emotion and the Appetitive Soul

• Plato associated the appetitive soul, responsible for basic desires and physical needs, with the chest and abdomen. This location suggested the connection of physical needs to the lower parts of the body.

• Plato believed that the spirited soul, associated with emotions like anger, courage, and ambition, resided in the chest. This location reflected the role of the chest in expressing emotions like courage and bravery.

Role of the Rational Soul in Plato's Philosophy

• Plato asserted that the rational soul plays a guiding role, steering both the spirited and appetitive souls towards virtue and reason. He viewed the rational soul as the driver of the human person.

Drive for Basic Needs in Plato's View

• According to Plato, the appetitive soul, driven by basic physical needs like thirst and hunger, motivates humans to seek sustenance and survival. This aspect of the soul was considered the most primal and least refined.

Plato's Three Parts of the Soul

• In Plato's philosophy, the human soul is comprised of three parts: the rational soul, the spirited soul, and the appetitive soul. These parts represent different aspects of human nature and are responsible for different functions.

Plato's Thought and Analysis

• Plato associated the rational soul with the ability to think and analyze. He believed that this part of the soul allowed humans to understand abstract concepts, make logical inferences, and engage in critical thinking.

Plato's Conclusion on Human Essence

• Through his analysis of the soul, Plato concluded that the essence of a human person lies in the soul. He believed that since the soul was immortal and separate from the body, it represented the true core of human existence.