PHGS01G Introduction To Philosophy Of The Human Person PDF
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This document provides a lesson on the philosophy of the human person, focusing on freedom. It explores different perspectives on freedom, including those of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas, and discusses social contract theory and types of law. The lesson also includes questions to test understanding and apply concepts.
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PHGS01G: INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY OF THE HUMAN PERSON WEEK 10 FREEDOM OF THE HUMAN PERSON FREEDOM Freedom or Liberty is a social and political concept that has great significance in how people participate in society. FREEDOM It is the power or right to act,...
PHGS01G: INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY OF THE HUMAN PERSON WEEK 10 FREEDOM OF THE HUMAN PERSON FREEDOM Freedom or Liberty is a social and political concept that has great significance in how people participate in society. FREEDOM It is the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. Important indication of human freedom is the ability to make choices and perform actions. Three Dimensions of Freedom: Volition, Love, and Society THE POWER OF VOLITION Aristotle Aristotle believed that humans are free because they have the ability to make choices. We can think about our options and choose what we believe is the best action. LOVE IS FREEDOM ST. THOMAS AQUINAS St. Thomas Aquinas believed that true freedom is found in love. When we love, we freely choose to do what is right and good, not because we are forced to, but because we want to. St. Thomas Aquinas believed that freedom is found in love and choosing what is morally right. If you are in a situation where you have to choose between lying for personal gain or telling the truth at a personal cost, how does Aquinas’ view of freedom apply? a) Lying would still preserve your freedom because it benefits you. b) Choosing the truth, even at personal cost, reflects true freedom because it aligns with moral goodness. c) True freedom is in making whichever choice feels easiest, regardless of consequences. d) Freedom has no relevance in moral decisions, as they are based on social norms. St. Thomas Aquinas believed that freedom is found in love and choosing what is morally right. If you are in a situation where you have to choose between lying for personal gain or telling the truth at a personal cost, how does Aquinas’ view of freedom apply? a) Lying would still preserve your freedom because it benefits you. b) Choosing the truth, even at personal cost, reflects true freedom because it aligns with moral goodness. c) True freedom is in making whichever choice feels easiest, regardless of consequences. d) Freedom has no relevance in moral decisions, as they are based on social norms. SOCIAL CONTRACT THEORY THOMAS HOBBES People agree to form a society by giving up some of their individual freedoms in exchange for safety and order. This is the social contract. Freedom here isn’t about doing whatever you want but having the security to live without fear, thanks to rules and a government that maintains order. FOURFOLD CLASSIFICATIONS OF LAWS (ST. THOMAS AQUINAS) DIVINE LAW Divine law is revealed by God through sacred scripture (e.g., the Ten Commandments) and is necessary for human salvation. Divine law is revealed directly by God and serves to guide humans toward their ultimate, supernatural end. Aquinas distinguishes divine law into the Old Law (Old Testament) and the New Law (New Testament). HUMAN LAW The specific rules and regulations created by human authorities to govern society. Human law is valid when it conforms to natural law and is aimed at the common good. NATURAL LAW The part of the eternal law that human beings can discern through reason. It consists of moral principles that direct humans toward good based on their nature and inclinations. ETERNAL LAW This refers to the overarching divine wisdom and rational order that governs the entire universe. Eternal law is the plan of God, which directs all creation toward its ultimate end. Everything that happens in the world, whether physical or moral, falls under this law Let’s Practice! Do not steal Divine Law The law of gravity Eternal Law Traffic regulations, like speed limits or road signs Human Law Human inclination to care for and protect one’s children Natural Law Thou shalt not kill. Divine Law Newton’s Third Law of Motion: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction Eternal Law The right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness Natural Law Laws requiring citizens to pay taxes Human Law Laws requiring citizens to pay taxes Human Law Do good and avoid evil Natural Law FREEDOM NEEDS: ACCOUNTABILITY, AUTONOMY, AND RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBILITY Responsibility is the duty to act in a morally and ethically sound manner, considering the well-being of others and the wider society when exercising one’s freedom. ACCOUNTABILITY Being accountable means being answerable for the consequences of one’s actions or choices, both to oneself and to others. AUTONOMY Autonomy refers to the capacity to make independent decisions, free from external control or coercion. It is the freedom to live according to one's own values and principles