Philosophy of Freedom and Human Nature

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Questions and Answers

What does Sartre mean by 'existence precedes essence'?

Essence is more important than existence.

Individuals are born with predetermined purposes.

Human beings have the power to create their own identities. (correct)

Existence is irrelevant to individual choices.

Which type of freedom refers to the absence of physical restraints?

Moral Freedom

Physical Freedom (correct)

Social Freedom

Psychological Freedom

Which philosopher proposed that individuals must submit to a higher authority in the context of social contracts?

Thomas Hobbes (correct)

John Locke

Friedrich Nietzsche

Jean-Paul Sartre

What is NOT an example of psychological freedom?

Being physically restrained by laws Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes moral freedom?

Upholding human dignity through ethical actions. Signup and view all the answers

In the social contract theory, what do individuals sacrifice?

A portion of their freedom. Signup and view all the answers

What is psychological freedom also known as?

Freedom of choice Signup and view all the answers

Why do Sartre and other existentialists emphasize individual choice?

It confirms the uniqueness of human existence. Signup and view all the answers

What is the intrinsic property that differentiates humans from animals?

The power to make choices and perform actions Signup and view all the answers

According to Aristotle, what is essential for the existence of human will?

The presence of intellect Signup and view all the answers

How does St. Thomas Aquinas describe the relationship between freedom and moral agency?

Freedom is a condition that arises from being a moral agent Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'volition' refer to in Aristotle's philosophy?

The faculty to use or discharge one's will Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of humanity does St. Thomas Aquinas believe delineates our moral dimension?

Our intellectual nature and spirituality Signup and view all the answers

In the context of human freedom, what does the ability to make choices signify?

The unique characteristic of being human over animals Signup and view all the answers

What does Aristotle suggest is within the power of every individual?

To choose the path of goodwill or malice Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of human actions according to St. Thomas Aquinas?

Seeking universal goodness and spirituality Signup and view all the answers

What is one main benefit of being frugal in relation to the environment?

It diminishes the use of natural resources. Signup and view all the answers

Which theory emphasizes that all living things possess equal value?

Deep Ecology Signup and view all the answers

What does social ecology attribute ecological problems to?

Social problems Signup and view all the answers

Which theory discusses the link between the oppression of women and environmental degradation?

Ecofeminism Signup and view all the answers

What is a principle associated with frugal living?

Reduce, reuse, recycle Signup and view all the answers

In ecofeminism, what is considered the root cause of ecological problems?

Male-centered view of nature Signup and view all the answers

What does deep ecology encourage individuals to do?

See themselves as part of the living earth Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding social ecology?

It links social hierarchies to environmental exploitation. Signup and view all the answers

What is involved in the deliberate act of choosing according to the concept of weighing reasons?

Weighing reasons and giving weight to certain reasons Signup and view all the answers

In which situation is an intellectual choice typically made?

In a hypothetical moral dilemma Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of practical choice?

It is based on psychological and emotional factors Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is NOT required for a situation to be considered a moral dilemma?

The decision must always lead to a favorable outcome Signup and view all the answers

How do 'givens' impact our freedom in making choices?

They create opportunities to exercise our freedom Signup and view all the answers

What does the discipline of environmental philosophy study?

The moral relationship of humans with the environment Signup and view all the answers

What does freedom require from an individual in order to be exercised fully?

A degree of control over oneself Signup and view all the answers

What role do humans play in society according to the concept of community responsibilities?

To promote universal roles and responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary challenge that arises when making practical choices?

Balancing emotional responses with rational thought Signup and view all the answers

Which element of freedom refers to a person's accountability for their actions?

Responsibility Signup and view all the answers

What happens to human freedom when a person loses control of themselves?

It is diminished and may lead to dehumanization Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about choices and consequences is accurate?

Some sacrifices must be accepted regardless of the choice made Signup and view all the answers

Which theory discusses social and economic systems as exploitative to women and nature?

Feminist Ecological Theory Signup and view all the answers

According to the United Nations, what does the term 'persons with disabilities' encompass?

Those with long-term impairments facing societal barriers Signup and view all the answers

How can voluntary actions be characterized in relation to freedom?

Free acts with corresponding moral value Signup and view all the answers

What describes the concept of voluntariness in the context of freedom?

Ability to act based on one's own free will Signup and view all the answers

What aspiration do many persons with disabilities have, similar to able-bodied individuals?

To pursue personal dreams and career goals Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is associated with the concept of the Social Contract Theory?

Jean Jacques Rousseau Signup and view all the answers

A person who remains unaware of the effects of their actions can be described as acting with what?

Diminished freedom Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a barrier faced by persons with disabilities, according to the discussions on their rights?

Supportive community environments Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of deciding to take action in relation to freedom?

It results in a certain consequence reflecting moral value Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best represents the relationship between freedom and moral responsibility?

True freedom involves recognizing one's responsibility for choices Signup and view all the answers

How does the content characterize the existing societal systems?

As exploitative towards certain groups Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Social Contract Theory?

The justification for political authority Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Freedom

Human capacity to act (or not act) without external compulsion or restraint.
An intrinsic and essential property of a person.
Indicates the ability to make choices and perform actions.
Sets humans apart from other beings.

Difference of Animals and Humans

Animals: respond to commands, trained/conditioned, act instinctively (predetermined responses to stimuli).
Humans: choose course of action, react to stimuli, not predetermined. Example: cleaning a room.

Aristotle (The Power of Volition)

Volition is the power to use or discharge one's will.
Absence of intellect means no will.
Human will is an instrument of free choice.
Every human has control over their own happiness or worthlessness.

St. Thomas Aquinas (Freedom is Spirituality and Love)

Intellectual beings seek universal goodness.
A condition of the will arising from human nature.
Humans are moral agents.
Spirituality separates humans from animals; it defines the moral dimension of fulfillment.
Conscience is a part of human spirituality.
Humans have the power to change themselves and their surroundings to be better.

Jean Paul Sartre (Individual Freedom)

Existentialism is a philosophical movement focused on human existence ("to exist").
Human beings are responsible for building their destiny.
Existence precedes essence: humans choose who they are.
Freedom is important in exercising individual choice.
Freedom involves decision-making, changing one's life path, and controlling one's life through choices.

Freedom is defined within the context of a government that rules them (contract).
Individuals agree to sacrifice some freedom to live life in a community.
Social agreement is necessary for government and people to function effectively.

Kinds of Freedom

Physical: absence of physical restraint; freedom of movement.
Psychological: freedom of choice; acting according to what is considered right and wise; acting or not acting. Inherent and cannot be denied.
Moral: exercising freedom with human dignity; charitable works; being conscious; being prudent; participating in volunteer works.

Freedom and Responsibility

All actions have consequences.
Capacity to choose, therefore responsibility for actions.
Freedom is the power to be who you are and create yourself.
Personality is the product of the choices we make.
Freedom helps achieve goals.

Elements defining freedom

Voluntariness: ability to act out of free will.
Responsibility: being accountable for one's actions and consequences.

The Nature of the Choices We Make

Being prudent involves evaluating alternatives before making choices.
Weighing reasons and considering implications.
Moral decisions require ethical considerations.

Act of Making a Choice

Choosing involves evaluating alternatives and weighing reasons.
Considerations may carry more weight than others.

Ethics

Deals with the principles of morality.
Involves critical examination of underlying principles.
A moral agent is able to distinguish right from wrong and is held accountable for actions.
Moral decisions are based on ethics, character, proper behavior, and affect well-being of others and of society.

Intellectual vs. Practical Choice

Intellectual Choice: deliberately selected based on a moral standpoint (normative answers about what one ought to do). Ex: a hypothetical situation
Practical Choice: based on psychological and emotional considerations, made in an actual situation. Ex : a real-world situation

Moral Dilemma

Ethical/moral dilemmas involve choosing between undesirable options.
Difficult situations require decisive decisions with moral implications.
Moral decision in a dilemma requires considering multiple options and weighing potential consequences.
Moral principles are often compromised when resolving dilemmas.

Evaluate and Exercise Prudence in Choice

Careful consideration of choices and implications.
Awareness of considerations and their future effects.
Good choices come from experiences and values.

Choices: Consequences and Sacrifices

Choices involve sacrifices and risks.
Decisions that are made impact the future and outcomes.
Weighing consequences when making choices is important.

How to exercise freedom responsibly and beneficially

Freedom is not absolute; it's subject to limitations and self-interests.
Limiting personal freedom, understanding boundaries, and respecting others are important.
Recognizing right and wrong can define limits to freedom.

Theories in Radical Ecological Philosophy

Deep Ecology: all living things possess equal value; intrinsic worth.
Social Ecology: ecological problems stem from social structures.
Ecofeminism: male-centered view of nature is the cause of environmental problems
- equality between genders is essential for nature protection

The Human Person in Society

Humans are social beings, interact with others in meaningful ways.
Society is a group of people who interact frequently, share territory, and have a common culture.
Societies come together to achieve a common goal.
Humans shape societies and, in turn, are affected by them.

Philosophers explore natural laws governing human societies.
Individuals create societies through agreements and compromise (social contract).
Individuals agree to limitations of their freedom to be governed to promote a functioning society.

Intersubjectivity

People's actions in society are based on mutual understanding and recognition of the common good.
Common good includes things that benefit people in a community (peace, safety, efficient transportation, clean spaces, etc).
Societies are shaped by recognition of the importance and worth of each member.

Important People

Hellen Keller: deaf-blind person who achieved many accomplishments.
Nicholas Vujicic: motivational speaker born without arms or legs; established a non-profit.
Roselle Ambubuyog: visually impaired person who graduated summa cum laude.

Underprivileged Sectors in Society

People who face social deprivation, limitations, and lack of social and economic opportunity and resources.
Various groups of people can be considered underprivileged.

LGBTQ++ Community

Members of the LGBTQ community face many challenges and biases in society.
Discrimination and prejudice often lead to violence and lack of acceptance and equality.
Members of the community often work to push for greater social understanding as well as political and social change.

Human Dignity

Dignity of humanity is a vital thing to uphold.
Actions that respect human dignity and uphold this importance are vital.

Important Concepts

Sustainability: meeting the needs of the present without compromising future needs.
Environmental Integrity: maintaining the environment without human interference.
Economic Efficiency: using resources prudently to reduce waste.
Equity: ensuring fairness and equal access to opportunities and resources for all.

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Description

Explore the concept of freedom and its significance in human nature through philosophical perspectives. This quiz delves into the differences between animals and humans, discussing volition according to Aristotle and the moral implications highlighted by St. Thomas Aquinas. Test your understanding of these essential philosophical ideas.