Philosophy of Self: Descartes and Locke

Questions and Answers

Who is the father of modern philosophy?

Rene Descartes

What are the latin phrase for "I think therefore I am"?

Cogito ergo sum

What are the essence of human self for descartes?

self-a thinking entity that doubts, understands, analyzes, questions, and reasons.

What are the two dimensions of the human self? and what do they mean?

The idea of the thinking self (or soul) as non-material, immortal, conscious being, and independent of the physical laws of the universe. The physical body is a material, mortal, non-thinking entity, fully governed by the physical laws of nature. Signup and view all the answers

According tp John Locke, the human mind at birth is tabula rasa. Tabula rasa means?

Blank state Signup and view all the answers

Using the power of reason and introspection enables one to understand and achieve accurate conclusions about the self (or personal identity).

True Signup and view all the answers

What does St. AUgustine do?

He integrates the ideas of Plato and teachings of Christianity. Signup and view all the answers

He believes that the body is united with the soul, so that man may be entire and complete.

St. Augustine Signup and view all the answers

What does this book says? Confessions, Augustine

humankind is created in the image and likeness of God. Everything created by God who is all good is good. Signup and view all the answers

“I am doubting, therefore I am”

St. Augustine Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

René Descartes: I Think Therefore I Am

French philosopher recognized as the father of modern philosophy.
Key phrase "Cogito ergo sum" translates to "I think therefore I am," embodying the concept of self.
The act of thinking about oneself confirms the existence of the self.
Descartes defines the human self as a thinking entity capable of doubt, understanding, analysis, questioning, and reasoning.
Distinguishes between two dimensions: the self as a thinking entity (soul) and the self as a physical body.
Descartes views the thinking self (soul) as non-material, immortal, and independent of physical laws.
The physical body is seen as a mortal, non-thinking entity governed by natural laws.
Asserts the independence of the soul and body, indicating they can exist and function separately.

John Locke: The Self is Consciousness

English philosopher who posits that the human mind starts as a "tabula rasa" or blank slate at birth.
Asserts that personal identity is shaped primarily by sense experiences throughout life.
Emphasizes that the essence of the self lies in conscious awareness as a thinking, reasoning, and reflecting identity.
Believes that consciousness ensures continuity of self-identity across different contexts.
Advocates for the use of reason and introspection to gain accurate understanding of personal identity.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of self and consciousness as presented by René Descartes and John Locke. Descartes introduces the idea of the self as a thinking entity, while Locke emphasizes personal identity rooted in consciousness from a blank slate. Delve into their contrasting views and understand the implications on modern philosophy.