Understanding the Self: Philosophical Perspective

A study of how individuals perceive and understand their own traits, characteristics, and experiences.

An examination of the nature of self through different philosophical viewpoints.

A written expression that analyzes a piece of media or experience.

An additional learning activity outside the main course material.

An activity designed to inspire, encourage, or stimulate.

A movie about a young boy with a facial deformity, who faces various challenges in adapting.

The introductory course unit that studies the self from a philosophical viewpoint.

The initial part of the course that explains the structure and subject matter.

Socrates believed self-knowledge is the most important virtue and a key to a good life.

A life not worth living because it lacks self-reflection.

The process of examining one's own thoughts and feelings; inner reflection.

The idea that learning is remembering what was already known.

Socrates' idea about the process of self-discovery through inner reflection.

Socrates believed that knowledge is essential for moral virtue; ignorance is detrimental.

Socrates' believed a key to self-knowledge is questioning and examining thoughts/ideas and beliefs.

Socrates is considered the father of Western philosophy, due to his major contributions to knowledge and truth.

Socrates believed the true self is the soul, not external things like possessions or social status. It's found through self-knowledge.

Examining one's nature and values to understand the true self.

Socrates believed that virtuous actions lead to happiness; knowledge is the key to virtue.

Socrates was executed by hemlock for his teachings.

Plato compiled Socrates' teachings and identified 3 elements of inner life.

Plato identified unique, inner elements found through self-examination.

Knowledge leads to virtue which leads to happiness in Socrates' philosophy.

Short sayings of Socrates' teachings.

Plato believed the soul has three parts: appetite, spirit, and reason.

The part of the soul focused on basic desires like food, drink, and sex.

The emotional part of the soul, responsible for feelings like anger and courage.

The part of the soul responsible for reasoning and intellect.

Aristotle believed the soul is not separate from the body; it's the form of the body.

Vegetative (plants), sentient (animals), and rational (humans).

The soul of plants, responsible for growth and basic functions.

The human soul, responsible for thinking, intellect and awareness.

Epictetus believed that true freedom comes from controlling one's own thoughts and actions, not being controlled by external factors.

The Stoic concept that separates things within our control (thoughts, actions) from those outside our control (external events).

Stoicism emphasizes finding happiness by accepting things as they are, focusing on what is within our control, rather than what's outside.

A modern psychological approach based on Stoic principles, helping people reframe negative thoughts and behaviors by focusing on control.

Aristotle's concept of a fulfilling life is achieved by using one's rational nature to live virtuously and contribute to the world.

Roman emperor who wrote Meditations—personal reflections on life, philosophy, and self-improvement.

A collection of personal writings by Marcus Aurelius, exploring themes like self-awareness, acceptance, and virtue.

Marcus Aurelius's view of the self, composed of the body, breath/pneuma (soul), and intellect (reason).

Marcus Aurelius’s belief that each person possesses a divine spark within, a faculty of reason that guides their choices.

Marcus Aurelius's approach to life focusing on controlling your thoughts, emotions, and actions to live a virtuous life.

Marcus Aurelius believed that everyone has an innate purpose, a reason for being.

Writings that focus on examining one's own thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

A set of beliefs and principles guiding how one lives, including values, ethics, and purpose.