Philosophy of Self and Consciousness

Questions and Answers

According to Plato, what are the three components of the soul?

the rational self, the spirited self, the appetitive soul

Socrates believed that the unexamined life is worth living.

False

Who is the first philosopher who engaged in systematic questioning about self?

Socrates

Thomas Aquinas believed that humans are composed of only one part.

False Signup and view all the answers

What phrase did René Descartes use to sum up his belief in the existence of the self?

Cogito, ergo sum Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher believed that the self is a bundle of impressions?

David Hume Signup and view all the answers

What did Augustine agree about human nature?

man is a bifurcated nature Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Learning Objectives

Students should be able to understand various philosophical perspectives on the self and consciousness.

Philosophy Overview

Focuses on the fundamental nature of the self and existence.

Socrates

First philosopher to engage in systematic questioning about the self.
Stated that the true task of the philosopher is to "know oneself."
Believed an unexamined life is not worth living.
Emphasized the dual nature of individuals: body (imperfect, impermanent) and soul (perfect, permanent).

Plato

Argued that humanity consists of a dual nature, with the soul containing three components:
- Rational self
- Spirited self
- Appetitive soul
In "The Republic," he posited that justice in a person is achieved through harmony among the three parts of the soul.

Augustine

Agreed with the concept of bifurcated nature in humans.
Asserted that the body is mortal while the soul anticipates eternal life with God.
Emphasized that human life's goal is to attain bliss with the divine through virtuous living.

Thomas Aquinas

Renowned medieval philosopher who defined man as composed of matter and form.
"Matter" refers to the physical substances while "Form" indicates the essence that defines a substance.
The human body is shared with animals; however, the soul distinguishes humans, acting as their essence.

René Descartes

Known as the Father of Modern Philosophy; distinguished between body and mind.
Claimed that much of what we believe can be false, but the self is undeniable.
Introduced "Cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am), asserting that the act of thinking confirms existence.
Defined the self as comprising two entities: the mind (Cogito) and the body (extension).

David Hume

Proposed that knowledge arises only from sensory experiences.
The self is viewed as dissimilar from prior philosophical thoughts; it is not a distinct entity beyond the physical.
Defined the self as a "bundle of impressions," emphasizing a collection of rapidly succeeding perceptions.

Emmanuel Kant

Suggested that people perceive their surroundings through a lens shaped by individual experiences, rather than pure observation.

Description

Explore the philosophical perspectives on self and consciousness from key thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Augustine. Understand the dual nature of humans and the importance of self-examination in leading a meaningful life.