Philosophical Perspectives of the Self PDF

Module 1: Philosophical Perspectives of the Self (Part 1: The Essentialist View) Philosophical Perspectives of the Self (Part 1) A. The Essentialist View 1. The Judaic and Christian Traditions 2. The Greek Rationalist Tradition 2.1. Socrates 2.2. Plato 2.3. Ari...

Module 1: Philosophical Perspectives of the Self (Part 1: The Essentialist View) Philosophical Perspectives of the Self (Part 1) A. The Essentialist View 1. The Judaic and Christian Traditions 2. The Greek Rationalist Tradition 2.1. Socrates 2.2. Plato 2.3. Aristotle 3. The Theocentric Tradition 3.1. St. Augustine 4. The Self in the Modern Period 4.1. Rene Descartes 4.2. Jean-Jacques Rousseau Course Outcomes Targeted by the Module: CO1. Effectively express feelings and insights towards acceptance of self-identity. CO4. Integrate understanding of the various aspects of the self for responsible decision-making in everyday living. Introduction to Philosophical Perspectives Learning Objectives: 1) Differentiate how various philosophical models define the “self.” 2) Effectively communicate one’s own beliefs and views regarding the different philosophical perspectives of the self, in a creative manner What is Philosophy? “philos” – “loving” or “fond of” “sophia” – “wisdom” Philosophy can be translated to “the love of wisdom” or “the pursuit of wisdom.” Philosophy is the systematic and critical study of fundamental questions regarding: existence; knowledge; values; reason; mind; truth; the nature and meaning of life, etc. A. The ESSENTIALIST VIEW proposes that the self has an inherent, unchanging essence or core identity that defines its true nature. Tradition refers to a set of beliefs, customs, and practices that are passed down through generations within a particular cultural, religious, or philosophical group. It encompasses the accumulated wisdom, teachings, and shared understanding that guide the beliefs and behaviors of people within these respective traditions. 1. The JUDAIC and CHRISTIAN TRADITIONS The core or center of humans is the SOUL (DIVINE SPARK). - eternal, spiritual essence or principle that represents the core of an individual’s identity - distinct from the physical body and is believed to persist beyond bodily death - seat of consciousness, morality, and personal connection with the divine - subject to divine judgment - immortal  Humans are made in the image and likeness of God. What does Genesis 1:27 mean?  It emphasizes the inherent dignity and value of every human being as a reflection of the divine.  Humanity is meant to mirror certain characteristics of God.  Humans have rational self-consciousness. Humans have the capacity to love. 2. The GREEK RATIONALIST TRADITION In this tradition, the self is often defined as the thinking and rational mind, emphasizing the importance of intellect and reason in understanding one’s identity and the world. This tradition, exemplified by philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, views the self as distinct from the physical body and capable of rational thought and reflection. 2.1. Socrates The self is closely tied to one’s rational mind. The soul, which he associated with the rational mind, was the essence of the self. The soul is synonymous with the rational and moral self--- the part of a person that engages in self-reflection, seeks truth, and strives for a virtuous life.  He famously stated, “Know thyself,” emphasizing the importance of self- awareness through introspection and the pursuit of wisdom. 2.2. Plato Plato’s view about the self is closely linked to his theory of the tripartite soul. The self consists of three parts: reason (associated with the intellect and rationality), spirit (linked to courage and determination), and appetite (related to desires and impulses). 2.3. Aristotle Aristotle explored the concept of the self in the context of ethics and virtue. He emphasized the role of virtue and moral character in shaping a good life.  The self is closely tied to one’s character and moral virtues. He believed that the self is expressed through actions and habits that reflect one’s moral character and virtues.  The ultimate purpose of human life is to achieve eudaimonia, often translated as “flourishing” or “well-being.” He identified eudaimonia as the highest good and the ultimate goal of human life.  Eudaimonia is attained by living a virtuous life, and virtues are developed through habitual actions that align with reason. 3. The THEOCENTRIC TRADITION God-Centered Existence: The self is understood through its relationship with God, placing God at the center of human life and purpose.  3.1. St. Augustine of Hippo St. Augustine of Hippo, a prominent figure in Christian theology and philosophy, believed the self as inherently tied to God. He emphasized the idea of the soul’s journey towards God, with the ultimate goal of finding spiritual fulfillment and salvation through a deep connection with the divine.  “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.” (Confessions, Book 1, Chapter 1)  Ethically, the most important part of the mind is not the intellect (or reason) but the will. The orientation of the will determines whether we love lower goods (bodily goods, wealth and reputation) or higher goods (virtue, and above all, God). 4. The Self in the Modern Period The concept of the self underwent significant transformations during the Modern Period, roughly spanning the late 18th to the mid-20th centuries. Emotionality was recognized as just as important as rationality. 4.1. Rene Descartes (French philosopher, mathematician, and scientist) The Father of Modern Philosophy, he conceived the idea that the human person has a body and a mind.  He proposed a dualistic view of the mind and body, suggesting that the mind and body are distinct substances.  He reached a fundamental truth through his doubt, leading to the famous conclusion that while we can doubt everything, we cannot doubt the existence of the thinking self.  Thus, his “Cogito, ergo sum” (I think, therefore I am) should lead one to conclude without a trace of doubt that he/she exists because he/she thinks. 4.2. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (Genevan philosopher, writer and composer) Natural Goodness: Humans are naturally good, guided by innate emotions like compassion and empathy, but can be corrupted by society. People are born innocent and moral, but societal pressures, competition, and inequality distort this goodness.  Authenticity: True selfhood is found by staying true to one’s inner self and values, with emotion being central to this process, free from societal expectations. Being true to oneself, rather than conforming to others’ expectations, is essential for happiness and integrity.  Freedom and Independence: Humans are happiest when free to make their own choices. Genuine freedom allows people to pursue what aligns with their natural desires and values.  Connection with Nature: The self thrives best in harmony with nature, which evokes feelings of wonder, peace, and belonging. Nature is a source of purity and being close to it helps people remain true to their natural goodness. References: 1) www.biography.com 2) www.coursehero.com 3) www.encyclopedia.com 4) www.getty.edu 5) www.guides.library.duq.edu 6) www.history.com 7) www.newworldencyclopedia.org 8) www.study.com 9) www.westportlibrary.libguides.com 10) www.worldhistory.org