Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person: The Self and Philosophy

Philosophy and its Definition

• The term 'philosophy' etymologically means "love of wisdom" from the two Greek words 'philos' (love) and 'sophia' (wisdom)
• Early attempts to write a universal definition of philosophy failed because it's a complex and diverse discipline
• The primary focus of philosophy is to explore fundamental questions and concerns about existence, reality, and knowledge
• We should not dwell too much on the meaning of philosophy as it's a dynamic and always evolving field

Philosophy and its Purpose

• The main purpose of doing philosophy is to engage with the complexities of human existence and the world
• According to the content, the main purpose of philosophy is to find a way to live in a broken world

Existentialism

• The main concern of Existentialism is the individual's existence and experience in the world
• Gabriel Marcel suggests that we live in a broken world that is fragmented and disconnected

Defining Philosophy

• The text implies that defining philosophy is a difficult task and may not be fixed or static
• Defining philosophy as a way of life would mean that it's a continuous and ongoing process

Philosophizing and Relationships

• The text defines philosophizing as a way of engaging with the complexities of human existence and the world
• Philosophizing involves exploring fundamental questions and concerns about existence, reality, and knowledge

Attachment Styles and Relationships

• The primary focus of Attachment Styles is on the patterns of attachment in adult relationships
• According to Hazan and Shiver (1987), the avoidant attachment style in adult relationships is characterized by fear of intimacy and emotional unavailability
• The key indicator for mental health problems, poor physical health, and lower life satisfaction is insecure attachment
• Secure attachment in adult relationships is characterized by feelings of safety, trust, and emotional closeness
• Anxious-ambivalent attachment in adult relationships is characterized by anxiety, fear of abandonment, and emotional instability

Relationships and Happiness

• The text suggests that close relationships are essential for happiness and well-being
• According to the reading material, the main reason humans evolved to fall in love is to establish close relationships and strengthen sense of belongingness
• One of the activities that pre-historic humans engaged in to strengthen their sense of belongingness was hunting with the group

Personal Relationships

• The text defines a personal relationship as a close and intimate bond between individuals
• According to Santon (2016), personal relationships are characterized by emotional closeness, trust, and commitment
• The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary extends the definition of personal relationships to include romantic relationships, friendships, and family relationships

Family and Relationships

• The Bureau of Census defines 'Family' as a group of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption
• According to the Mental Health Foundation (2016), a key indicator for mental health problems is poor quality of relationships

Explore the first module on the philosophy of the human person, focusing on the self, reflection, and the concept of death. Learn to define philosophy, distinguish between primary and secondary reflection, and understand the difference between problem and mystery.