Philosophy of Freedom and Choice

What concept emphasizes that an individual's freedom is innate and cannot be denied?

Which type of freedom is associated with the absence of physical restraint?

According to the principles laid out in social contract theory, what is the relationship between individual freedom and government?

What is a key aspect of moral freedom?

In the context of existentialism, what does Sartre mean by 'existence precedes experience'?

What distinguishes human beings from animals according to Aquinas?

What does existentialism primarily inquire about?

According to the concept of freedom in human persons, what does it mean to act freely?

Which of the following best describes the role of conscience according to Aquinas?

What is a key concept in the power of volition as related to human happiness?

What aspect of human nature does Aquinas attribute as a unique power?

What is a characteristic behavior of animals compared to humans?

According to Aristotle, how do humans approach tasks?

Freedom of Choice

Freedom of choice is an innate right that cannot be denied. It includes the freedom to choose friends.
Moral Freedom involves using freedom in a manner that upholds human dignity and goodness. Examples include doing charitable works and being sensitive to the needs of others.
Positive and negative freedom: both involve exercising your freedom in a way that is responsible.

Absolute Freedom

Absolute freedom is a state where there exists no hindrance to prevent a person from doing what they want.

To Exist!

According to Sartre, humans build their own destiny. Existence precedes experience, meaning we are creators of our own paths.
It emphasizes the importance of free individual choice, regardless of external influences.
The theories of Thomas Hobbes, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and John Locke, known as the Theory of Social Contract, define freedom in the context of having a government to rule. The contract is the basis of moral obligation and duty.

Kinds of Freedom

Physical Freedom refers to the absence of any physical restraint.
Psychological Freedom is the ability to think and act without any external influence.

St. Thomas Aquinas

St. Thomas Aquinas believed freedom is the ability of an intellectual being to seek universal goodness.
He viewed humans as moral agents, with a conscience (due to our spirituality) that allows us to choose between good and evil.
Our spirituality separates our moral dimension from that of animals.
Humans have the unique power given by God to change themselves and things around them for the better.

Jean Paul Sartre

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that focuses on human existence.

Freedom of the Human Person (Part 1)

Freedom is the human capacity to act or choose without external compulsion.
Animals respond to commands, and are trained to perform actions instinctively.
Humans can choose the course of action to take when given a stimulus. Aristotle used an example of cleaning a room.
The power of volition is the faculty to use or discharge one's will.
The happiness of every human being is in their own hands to preserve and develop.

Explore the intricate concepts of freedom, both absolute and moral, as discussed by prominent philosophers like Sartre, Hobbes, Rousseau, and Locke. This quiz delves into the essence of individual choice, existence, and the implications of social contracts in defining freedom. Assess your understanding of these philosophical ideas and their impact on human dignity.