Philosophy of the Human Person - Grade 11/12

The soul can exist independently of the body, but they can be united to form a complete being.

The soul, which is the form of the body, is the fundamental principle responsible for animating a human.

The soul engages with the body by manifesting itself through movement and understanding.

Humans have a limited intellect compared to angels, relying on the body for mental processes.

Instead of being completely separate, the soul and body are distinct parts of a unified human being.

The union of the body and soul is the defining characteristic of the human person. This union is not simply a merging of two separate entities but rather an intimate connection, where the soul, as the form, animates the body. This connection enables humans to perform a wide range of actions, from simple bodily functions to complex mental operations.

St. Thomas Aquinas argued that the soul is not a part of the body's essence. Instead, the soul's nature allows it to unite with the body, forming a composite being. This composite entity, not just the soul alone, defines the human species. Aquinas further suggests that the soul's dependence on the body for certain actions indicates its intellectuality is lesser than that of angels, who lack a physical form.

Aristotle believed that the soul is the primary principle responsible for animating the human body. This soul, which is the body's form, gives it the capacity for activities such as nourishment, sensation, thinking, and movement. While the soul is the form, it is not merged with the body. Instead, it interacts with the body, influencing its actions, and enabling understanding. Consequently, the human being is viewed as a unified whole, composed of distinct body and soul elements.

The concept of "transcendence" refers to the human capacity to go beyond their limitations and achieve something greater. It implies a potential for personal growth, spiritual development, and reaching beyond the bounds of the physical world.

The term "Embodied Spirit" refers to the human being as a composite of both body and soul. It recognizes that humans are not solely spiritual beings or physical beings but rather a unique blend of both elements. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual aspects of human nature.

The mind-body problem explores the relationship between the non-physical mind and the physical body.

Thomas Aquinas argued that human nature is composed of both a body and a soul, emphasizing the spiritual aspect.

Aquinas believed the soul serves as the body's driving force, initiating movement and life.

Aquinas maintained that knowledge of the physical world occurs through resemblance or likeness. This means to understand the body, one must be somehow similar to it.

Aquinas argued that the soul, though non-physical, can influence the body through a concept similar to 'contact,' but not physical touch.

Aquinas's idea contradicts the belief that the soul must be a body because it directly interacts with the body. He distinguishes between different types of 'movement' and 'contact' to explain this.

Thomas Merton emphasized the importance of finding our true selves through discovering the divine image within us. This involves being aware of our spirituality and moving away from distractions.

Merton encourages a journey of self-discovery that involves shedding external distractions and seeking a deeper connection with a higher spiritual force.

Our weaknesses, fears, and limitations can be sources of learning and growth. Experiencing them allows us to confront our vulnerabilities and eventually find strength and acceptance.

Failures, though painful, can lead to valuable lessons and a broader perspective. When we confront our limitations, we open ourselves to new possibilities and a greater understanding of life's complexities.

Loneliness, often rooted in fear and vulnerability, can lead to self-discovery and a deeper understanding of our needs. It allows us to confront our dependence on others and find independence and freedom.

Love, a powerful force, brings richness, positivity and transcendence. It involves risks, challenges, and sacrifices, but ultimately leads to personal growth and a deeper connection to others.

Our dependence on others, gadgets, or material possessions can become a form of possessiveness, limiting our freedom. Loneliness can help us break free from this dependence and embrace a more authentic sense of self.

A state where one's thoughts, actions, and desires align with God's will, expressed through purity of heart, mind, and body. It involves living a life free from harmful desires and actions, seeking holiness, and respecting God's plan for sexuality.

The freedom to make choices, but with a responsibility to choose actions that are morally right and do not harm others.

The practice of forgiving another person for their wrongdoings, releasing bitterness and anger, and freeing oneself from the burden of resentment.

The inherent beauty and perfection found in nature, serving as a reminder of God's creation and the interconnectedness of all things.

The ability to be open and vulnerable to another person, admitting weaknesses and acknowledging the need for help, a sign of true humanity.

Experiences that deeply move us, inspire awe and wonder, leading to a profound connection with something greater than ourselves.

Being aware of our dependence on others, acknowledging their contributions to our lives, and expressing gratitude for the help we receive.

Experiences that help us transcend our ordinary limitations, connecting us to a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, awakening a sense of wonder and awe.

The ability to make autonomous choices based on freedom of will, rather than being influenced by external factors

The belief that everything experienced in life is a direct consequence of actions taken in past lives.

A state of being completely free from all forms of attachment and bondage, achieving complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The state of being completely free from any form of constraint or limitation, including social, physical, and mental restrictions.

A state of being completely free from all forms of bondage and attachment, achieving complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The belief that beauty exists in the minute details of nature, even in seemingly simple things like a flower.

The ability to choose to see freedom as either a burden or an opportunity for growth and self-determination.

Experiencing richness, positivity, and transcendence showcases the value of beauty, as it embodies the inherent worth and captivating allure found within the universe and the human spirit.

Aristotle proposed that the soul is not the body, but a separate entity capable of uniting with the body, forming a composite being. This union, not just the soul alone, defines what it means to be human.

Aristotle identifies the soul as the fundamental principle responsible for animating the body, enabling activities like nourishment, sensation, thinking, and movement.

In Aristotle's "De Anima II," he explores how the soul is the source of life's phenomena, including the capacity for self-nutrition, sensation, thinking, and movement.

Buddhism's Eightfold Path comprises eight principles for achieving enlightenment, including right conduct, right means of livelihood, right choice, and right mindfulness, among others.

St. Thomas Aquinas emphasizes that human beings possess a unique capacity for self-improvement and ethical action, as they are both spiritual and physical entities.

St. Augustine believed that right actions align with God's will, meaning they are pleasing to God. Examples include acts of charity, compassion, and obedience to divine laws.

St. Augustine's idea that we are free yet morally bound to obey the law suggests that we are responsible for our actions, even though we have the choice to act freely. This implies a moral obligation to choose actions that conform to divine or natural law.