Philosophical Self: Socrates & Plato

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Questions and Answers

According to Socrates, what two components make up the self?

Heart and desires

Body and spirit

Mind and emotions

Body and soul (correct)

What additional component of the soul does Plato introduce in his theory of the self?

Rational, spirited, and appetitive (correct)

Spiritual essence

Physical form

Emotional intelligence

What does the rational part of Plato's soul allow humans to do?

Contemplate emotions

Engage in intellectual thinking (correct)

Experience happiness

Act on basic urges

What famous statement is attributed to René Descartes regarding self-awareness?

I think, therefore I am Signup and view all the answers

How does David Hume describe the concept of self?

A bundle theory of mind Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea of the theory of self-knowledge discussed?

All self-knowledge is based on our experiences of the world around us Signup and view all the answers

What does St. Augustine mean by 'Si fallor, sum'?

If I am mistaken, I exist Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'virtuous self' refer to in the context of Socratic philosophy?

The highest moral character and states of being Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'impressions' refer to in relation to self-bundle concepts?

Basic objects of our experience or sensation Signup and view all the answers

According to Immanuel Kant, what is a key feature of human nature related to self?

Humans are the only creatures who can govern themselves. Signup and view all the answers

How does Gilbert Ryle conceptualize the self?

As a series of observable behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

What is Maurice Merleau-Ponty's view on the relationship between mind and body?

They are intertwined and cannot be separated. Signup and view all the answers

What significant aspect does George Mead associate with the development of the self?

The self emerges from social experiences and communication. Signup and view all the answers

In Mead's theory, what happens during the 'play stage' of self-development?

Children pretend to take on roles of others. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'preparatory stage' in Mead's theory involve?

Children mimicking or imitating others. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'self-respect' as discussed in the content?

Acknowledging one's worth and treating oneself with dignity. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Philosophical Self

Socrates emphasizes the dual nature of man: body and soul; self-knowledge is the path to wisdom.
Socrates’ maxim "know thyself" encourages introspection to uncover one's inner self.
Plato expands on Socrates' view by identifying three components of the soul: rational, spirited, and appetitive.
Rational Soul: Engages in thought and intellect; allows for contemplation before birth.
Spirited Soul: Connects to emotions, thought, and striving for personal perfection.
Appetitive Soul: Governs basic urges and desires, reflecting human needs such as hunger, thirst, and reproductive urges.
St. Augustine: Introduces the quote "Si fallor, sum" (if I am mistaken, I am), underscoring the role of divinity in discerning truth.
St. Thomas Aquinas describes man as a composition of matter (physical) and form (essence).
Rene Descartes’ famous assertion "Cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am) asserts the centrality of thought in defining existence.
David Hume presents the "bundle theory of mind," positing that the self comprises a collection of perceptions and experiences rather than a singular identity.
Immanuel Kant stresses respect for self and the uniqueness of humans in governing their actions; ethical treatment of individuals is paramount.
Gilbert Ryle argues that the self is revealed through behavior, opposing the idea of a distinct, analyzable self; rather, it is a collection of actions and traits.
Maurice Merleau-Ponty challenges the dualism of mind and body, asserting that they are inseparable and that this confusion leads to misunderstanding.

Sociological Self

The 1967 experiment by G.R. Stephenson with five monkeys explores the influence of society on behavior and self-perception.
George Mead's theory of the social self posits that individuals are shaped by social experiences and communication.
The self emerges in the context of society and is constructed through interactions with others, particularly family.
Developing self-awareness begins with language acquisition, marking the integration of social experiences.
Mead identifies three critical aspects of social self theory: social experience, communication through symbols, and reflexivity.
Stages in Mead's theory of self-development include:
- Preparatory Stage: Children imitate others, such as mimicking actions observed in adults.
- Play Stage: Children engage in role-playing and assume roles of significant figures in life, enhancing social understanding through imitation.

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Description

This quiz explores the concepts of the philosophical self as presented by Socrates and Plato. It delves into the dual nature of man, consisting of body and soul, and the importance of self-knowledge in achieving wisdom and virtue. Test your understanding of these foundational ideas in philosophy.