Freedom and Responsibility in the COVID Era

An obstacle is a perceived impediment to a goal, while a limitation is how a person perceives an obstacle. A person is free to choose whether a thing or an event is an obstacle, or something else.

Sartre argues that freedom is present in every situation, even seemingly limiting ones. The person always chooses how to respond.

Freedom and responsibility are inseparable; because we are free, we are responsible for our choices.

Fatigue is an example of a non-choice; it is a physiological state, not a conscious decision.

Not choosing is still a choice; inaction is an action, and therefore the person still holds responsibility for not acting.

Freedom does not justify any harmful action; a valid choice also has responsibility in it.

Responsibility arises from freedom; when you choose, you are responsible for the consequences of that choice.

A person is fundamentally free and cannot escape that freedom, inherently implying responsibility for their choices.

Knowing oneself allows one to connect with others; understanding yourself allows you to relate to the other person.

The mutual recognition of self and other; both individuals acknowledge the existence of themselves and another person as being.

Mutual relationship between two individuals where each person is seen as a complete person with their own concerns.

The relationship between one's self and something that is not considered a human being.

A philosopher who discussed intersubjectivity through I-Thou and I-It relationships.

Prioritizing the other person in relationships.

An extreme egocentric view; only one's self and thoughts matter.

Buber's influential work on intersubjectivity. It explores the relationship between self and the other.

A state of being fully engaged in the present moment, experiencing the totality of the situation without judgment or distraction. It is the essence of the I-Thou relationship.

The state of being true to oneself, living in accordance with one's values and beliefs. It is achieved through meaningful relationships and the realization of one's full potential.

The process of realizing one's full potential as a person, characterized by empathy, understanding, and the ability to engage in meaningful relationships. This is achieved through the I-Thou relationship.

The Other's expression in dialogue implies a boundless, infinite depth of meaning and understanding, exceeding the limitations of individual thought.

Through dialogue, we are not simply receiving information, but being transformed through the Other's experience and perspective. It is a process of learning and growth through shared understanding.

The Other's presence in dialogue brings a level of understanding and meaning that transcends the limitations of our individual thoughts and experiences.

The 'other' encompasses not just individuals different from oneself, but also vulnerable beings whose existence is interconnected with the environment.

The other's presence challenges the self's perception of ownership and control over the world, prompting self-reflection.

Personal growth should not come at the expense of others. The other's well-being plays a significant role in the self's journey.

Ricoeur suggests that understanding oneself is crucial before engaging deeply with others. Self-care is a stepping stone to caring for others.

Buber contrasts interactions with objects ('I and It') with meaningful relationships with others ('I and Thou'), emphasizing the importance of genuine connection.

Levinas emphasizes our responsibility towards the vulnerable 'other'. We must step outside ourselves to see and care for them.

Understanding self and other prepares individuals for social engagement, encouraging empathy and consideration for others beyond personal comfort.

Human beings are naturally drawn to connect with others. This tendency is documented throughout history.

The practice of collective effort and mutual aid, especially in times of hardship, like helping neighbors during disasters or sharing workloads in farming tasks.

A community's commitment to support each other during difficult times, demonstrating solidarity and shared responsibility.

The practice of mutual understanding and respect among neighbors, fostering a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere.

The act of sharing blessings and resources with others, strengthening communal bonds and fostering a sense of unity.

The principle of love for one's fellow human being, manifested in practices like pagtambayayong, pagsinabtanay, and pagpa-ambit.

Farmers' practice of pagtambayayong, wherein they collaborate and assist each other in various agricultural tasks, like harvesting and field preparation.

The cycle of mutual assistance among farmers, where helping a neighbor in their work is reciprocated when they need help, strengthening community ties.

The positive outcomes of pagtambayayong among farmers, leading to a friendly and supportive environment within the community.

The fear of dying, often associated with the potential consequence of contracting a fatal disease like a virus.

The negative effects of a pandemic on businesses and individuals' livelihoods, including job losses and financial hardship, due to restrictions and disruptions caused by the disease.

The inherent purpose or significance of human existence, a question explored by philosophers and individuals alike.

Short expressions encapsulating wisdom, values, or beliefs, often used to guide actions or provide insights into life.

The question of whether there is a single, definitive meaning of life applicable to all individuals.

Mottos and sayings offer suggestions and perspectives on how to live a meaningful life, rather than providing a definitive answer.

The idea that the meaning of life is personal and unique to each individual, with no single correct interpretation.

The concept that there is no single definition of life's meaning, and it is open to individual interpretation and experience.