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Questions and Answers
What is the philosophical maxim mentioned by Socrates?
Know thyself
Which ancient Greek philosopher emphasized the importance of self-knowledge?
According to Plato, what are the three parts that comprise the self?
Reason, spirit, and appetite
According to Aristotle, the self is a combination of ______ and ______.
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Saint Augustine believed that the human soul longs for union with God.
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What famous statement did René Descartes propose?
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Which philosopher associated the self with consciousness and personal identity?
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What is one of the examples used to illustrate Socrates' idea of knowing oneself?
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In the example with Jack, what choice does he ultimately make?
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How does Toby express his emotions while dancing, according to Aristotle?
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Study Notes
The Self From Philosophical Perspectives
- Exploring the self involves deep philosophical questions about identity, existence, and introspection.
Socrates
- Ancient Greek philosopher known for advocating self-knowledge with the maxim “Know thyself.”
- Emphasized introspection and self-examination as keys to wisdom.
- Acknowledging one’s ignorance opens up to new perspectives and personal growth.
- Socratic dialogues, such as "The Apology" and "The Phaedrus," illustrate his philosophies on the self.
- Example: Maria chooses a career aligned with her passions, reflecting Socratic teachings.
Plato
- Ancient Greek philosopher who posited that the self is immortal and separate from the body.
- Introduced the tripartite theory of the soul: reason, spirit, and appetite.
- Believed that harmony among these parts is essential for a virtuous life and a just society.
- Example: Jack prioritizes studying over playing video games, showcasing the balance between rational thought and desires.
Aristotle
- Ancient Greek philosopher who rejected Plato’s Theory of Forms.
- Described the self as a combination of body and soul, emphasizing their inseparability through hylomorphism.
- Conducted analysis of the self to articulate that both body and soul are essential to human identity.
- Example: Toby's dance expresses both physical skill and emotional depth, illustrating the unity of body and soul.
Saint Augustine
- Theologian and philosopher who saw the self as connected to God.
- Believed human souls seek fulfillment through communion with God, their ultimate source.
- Introduced the idea of original sin leading to spiritual longing and discontent; fulfillment is through divine grace.
- Example: Emma faces a moral dilemma, exemplifying the internal struggle between selfish desires and moral values.
René Descartes
- French philosopher known for dualism, separating the self into mind and body.
- Famous for the phrase “Cogito, ergo sum” meaning “I think, therefore I am,” which underlines self-awareness as proof of existence.
- Associated the mind with consciousness and the body with mechanical functions, placing the self primarily in the mind.
- Example: Doubting reality emphasizes the act of thinking as evidence of one’s existence.
John Locke
- English philosopher who developed a theory of the self focusing on consciousness and personal identity.
- Proposed that self-identity is based on memory and the continuity of consciousness over time.
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Description
Embark on a fascinating journey through various philosophical perspectives on the self. This module explores how different thinkers grapple with the nature of identity and existence. Prepare to unravel the complexities of who you are in a thought-provoking exploration.
