Human Composition of Man

Human Composition of Man

• "Man" is a general term for humanity, including terms like humanity, mankind, and humankind.
• The species name for humans is HOMO SAPIENS, distinguishing modern humans from other animals.
• "Person" refers to the individuality of a human being, encompassing self-awareness and the recognition of rights and dignity.

Key Concepts

• Personhood: The status or quality of being a person, highlighting awareness and social interaction.
• Human Nature: Fundamental characteristics that set humans apart from other creatures, including thinking, feeling, and acting, independent of societal influences.
• Self-awareness: Having a clear understanding of one's thoughts, emotions, identity, and actions.
• Self-determination: The ability to make choices based on personal preferences and regulate one's actions.

Freedom and Consequences

• Free will: The capacity to choose actions freely and fosters self-determination.
• Consequences: Outcomes of actions, emphasizing moral responsibility and awareness in decision-making.

Social Interaction and Dignity

• Externality: The ability to reach out and connect with others and the world.
• Dignity: Inherent worth of all humans, with value and respect as fundamental rights.

Limits and Possibilities

• Transcendence: The dynamic capacity to redefine oneself, influenced by one's limitations or "facticity."
• Based on origins meaning "to go beyond" and "climb."
• Facticity: Existing life circumstances, such as personal history and limitations.

Spatial-Temporal Being

• Humans are both spatial and temporal beings, facing limitations from both space (presence in multiple locations) and time (finite lifespan).

The Body as an Intermediary

• The human body serves as a mediator in expression but presents limitations for self-expression.
• Limitations and possibilities for transcendence can differ from person to person.

Present Living and Transcendence

• Focus on living in the present can alleviate worries about the future and regrets from the past.

Bodily Limitations

• Categories include:
  • Mental and emotional disorders (e.g., anxiety).
  • Physical disabilities (e.g., amputations).
  • Illnesses (e.g., hypertension).
  • Experiences of failure (e.g., academic setbacks).

Social and Environmental Limitations

• Influences include:
  • Socio-economic factors.
  • Neighborhood safety and organization.
  • Types of relationships (e.g., abusive dynamics).
  • Negative peer influences (e.g., drug use).

Overcoming Limitations

• Bodily limits can be challenged through new experiences and incremental difficulty.
• Social/environmental obstacles are more complex, requiring a strong mindset and clear goals to navigate.
• Acknowledging personal limits and strategizing for transcendence is essential for growth and self-improvement.