Reviewer in Philosophy: Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person PDF

**REVIEWER IN PHILOSOPHY** **Introduction to the Philosophy of the Human Person** **The Human Person as an Embodied Spirit** **1.The Body: More than Just a Physical Entity** A. Man as a Biological Body - Physical Perspective: Man is composed of biological systems (e.g., circulatory, nerv...

**REVIEWER IN PHILOSOPHY** **Introduction to the Philosophy of the Human Person** **The Human Person as an Embodied Spirit** **1.The Body: More than Just a Physical Entity** A. Man as a Biological Body - Physical Perspective: Man is composed of biological systems (e.g., circulatory, nervous, digestive) that are essential for survival. - Social Perspective: The body plays a role within society, fulfilling specific functions (e.g., gender roles, labor). B. The Body as an Object - The body can be objectified, meaning it can be treated as an object or tool, whether by oneself or others (e.g., grooming, using the body for work). - However, the body is not just an object; it is inseparably connected to our sense of self. We experience the world through the body, and it is the primary way we interact with others. A. Body as a Means of Experience - The body is the medium through which individuals interact with the world, express emotions, communicate, and relate to others. Our actions, emotions, and intentions are made visible through the body. **2. Duality of Body and Soul (Disembodied View)** A. The Separation of Body and Soul - Dualism is the belief that the body and soul are distinct entities. - Plato believed that the soul is the true essence of a person, existing before and after the body. - René Descartes argued that the body (physical) and the soul (mental) are separate but interact. His famous phrase, \"I think, therefore I am,\" highlights the soul as the thinking, conscious self. B. The Soul as the Thinking Self - The soul, according to dualists, is responsible for thoughts, feelings, and reasoning. The body is seen as limiting, while the soul is connected to higher faculties like rationality and decision-making. **3. Unity of Body and Soul (Embodied View)** A. Body and Soul as One - Monism is the belief that the body and soul are united as one entity. There is no separation; rather, they function together to form the complete person. - Aristotle: The body (matter) and soul (form) are inseparable. The soul gives life and purpose to the body. - Thomas Aquinas: The soul is the principle of life, but it cannot exist without the body. - Gabriel Marcel: We are not merely a body or soul; rather, we are embodied subjectivity-our whole self is a union of body and soul. B. Body as a Mirror of the Soul - In the embodied view, the body is not separate from the soul. Thinking and feeling are interconnected with bodily systems, and our bodily experiences reflect our internal self. - Example: When you feel happy or sad, your body reflects this through actions like smiling or crying. Body and soul are always working together. C. The Christian Perspective: Man is an embodied spirit created by God. The body and soul require care because they are intertwined, reflecting the unity of the human person. **4. The Human Mind and Consciousness** A. Locke\'s Reflection on Consciousness - John Locke proposed that the human mind is like a blank slate (tabula rasa) at birth, which is later filled with ideas through two sources: - Sensation: Ideas from the external world, gathered through the senses. 2. Reflection: Ideas formed from internal mental activities (thinking, reasoning). B. The Mind-Body Problem - Philosophers continue to explore how the mind (soul) and body work together or separately. The mind-body problem asks how our thoughts and physical actions are connected. **5. Reason: The Faculty that Transcends the Body** A. Human Capacity for Reason - One of the key traits that sets humans apart is the ability to reason and reflect on experiences. - Reason allows individuals to deliberate, make decisions, and seek meaning in life, helping people go beyond their physical limitations. B. Transcendence Through Reason - Transcendence means recognizing bodily limitations while striving to go beyond them. Through reason and action, humans can aspire to higher goals, shaping the present while being influenced by both the past and future. **6. The Limits of the Body and Transcendence** A. Physical Limitations - The body imposes natural limitations, such as being limited to one place at a time and being constrained by time and space. Physical and biological constraints like strength and brain capacity also limit what we can do. B. Overcoming Limitations Through Action - Despite these limitations, humans transcend them by making choices, setting goals, and dreaming of better futures. We accept our bodily limitations, but we seek to push beyond them through our actions and ideas. **7. Man as an Embodied Subjectivity** A. Embodied Life - Life is experienced through the body and the spirit, where bodily actions are interconnected with the soul. Our body allows us to engage with the world while revealing the difference between our inner self and the outside world. B. Expression Through the Body - The body expresses thoughts, emotions, and intentions. However, it may not fully capture all aspects of subjectivity. Sometimes, the body reveals, and sometimes it conceals, the true self. C. Human Life as Historical and Temporal - Human life is historical and temporal, meaning it is shaped by experiences lived in specific times and places. We are influenced by both personal and shared experiences within society. D. Embodiment and Meaning - Embodiment means that we make inner meanings visible through our bodily gestures and actions. However, the body has its limits in fully expressing who we are inside. Our lives are understood in relation to others and the world, with both body and soul forming our complete experience. 8\. Reflection Questions Does satisfying the needs of our body lead to neglecting or dishonoring it? Why do we need to respect both our body and soul? Philosophical views on human transcendence explore the concept of surpassing ordinary limits or conditions to achieve a higher state of being, understanding, or existence. Different philosophical traditions and thinkers approach transcendence in varied ways. 1. **Existentialism** - Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger - idea of transcendence in terms of individual freedom and self-overcoming - for existentialists, transcendence involves breaking free from societal norms and expectations to create one\'s own essence and meaning - Sartre's concept of \"existence precedes essence\" suggests that individuals transcend their given circumstances by defining themselves through their actions. 2. **Phenomenology** - Edmund Husserl and Maurice Merleau-Ponty prominent phenomenologists - address transcendence in relation to consciousness and perception - for them, transcendence involves moving beyond the immediate experience of objects to a deeper understanding of how consciousness relates to the world - It's about reaching beyond the self to grasp the broader structures of experience. 3. **Transcendental Philosophy** - Immanuel Kant's transcendental philosophy considers transcendence in terms of the conditions that make knowledge possible - Kant explores how the mind transcends sensory experience through categories and concepts that shape our understanding of reality - This kind of transcendence is more about the cognitive structures that underlie our perception of the world. 4. **Eastern Philosophies** - In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism transcendence often relates to spiritual enlightenment or liberation - Hinduism, the concept of Moksha represents liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) and achieving unity with the divine (Brahman). - Buddhism discusses transcendence in terms of Nirvana, the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of rebirth. - Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao, a process that involves transcending ego and conventional desires. 5. **Postmodernism** - Postmodern thinkers are often skeptical of grand narratives and absolute truths. - They might view transcendence in a more fragmented or pluralistic manner, where the focus is on multiple, context-dependent understandings of existence and meaning. - Transcendence, in this view, might involve navigating and integrating various perspectives rather than seeking a single, universal truth. 6. **Humanism** - Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, focus on personal growth and self-actualization - For humanists, transcendence involves realizing one\'s full potential and achieving a sense of higher purpose or meaning through personal development and self-improvement. Each of these perspectives offers a unique lens through which to understand human transcendence, reflecting the diversity of philosophical thought on this complex and multifaceted concept. Top of Form Bottom of Form **HUMAN PERSON AND THE ENVIRONMENT** ENVIRONMENTAL PHILOSOPHY/ ETHICS - Focuses on the moral relationship of humans and to the environment and its non-human counterparts. ENVIRONMENTAL AESTHETICS - Perspective discussing concepts of beauty in nature. Natural beauty is maintaining order and balance in the environment THREE MAJOR VIEWS ON THE RELATIONSHIP OF HUMANITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT How does environmental philosophy view humanity's relationship with the environment? AN T H R O P O C E N T R I S M - focuses on the significant role of humankind in the world and considers nature as the means by which humans are able to meet their needs and survive. B I O C E N T R I S M - believes that humans are not the only significant species on the planet, and all organisms have inherent value and should be protected. E C O C E N T R I S M - Believes that humankind is part of a greater biological system or community, and we have significant roles as guardians of nature. PHILOSOPHICAL VIEWS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Deep Ecology, Social Ecology, Eco-Feminism PHILOSOPHICAL VIEWS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Deep Ecology - focuses on the intrinsic value of nature and takes a holistic approach that emphasizes ecosystems, species, and the planet as a whole. **8 PRINCIPLES OF DEEP ECOLOGY** 1\. Intrinsic Value: This principle suggests that all life forms, whether they are humans, animals, plants, or microorganisms, have an equal right to exist and flourish on Earth. It\'s about recognizing the intrinsic value of all living things, not just valuing them for their usefulness to humans. 2\. Anti-Anthropocentrism: Deep ecology challenges the human-centered view of the world. It encourages us to see ourselves as just one part of the larger web of life rather than the most important or dominant species. 3\. Ecological Complexity and Diversity: This principle highlights the importance of maintaining the rich diversity and complexity of ecosystems. It argues that biodiversity is not only valuable in itself but also essential for the stability and health of the planet. 4 Personal Responsibility: Deep ecology encourages individuals to take responsibility for their impact on the environment and to make choices that reduce harm to the Earth\'s ecosystems. It\'s about being mindful of our actions and their consequences. 5\. Sustainability: Deep ecologists advocate for sustainable practices that allow for the long-term health and balance of ecosystems. This means using resources in a way that doesn\'t deplete them or harm the environment. 6\. Global Perspective: Deep ecology promotes a global outlook, recognizing that environmental issues are interconnected and that solutions often need to be addressed on a global scale. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation and solidarity among people worldwide 7\. Interdependence: This principle stresses the idea that all life forms and ecosystems are interconnected. What happens in one part of the world or one part of an ecosystem can have ripple effects throughout the entire system. 8\. Deep Long-Range Ecology: Deep ecologists encourage us to think about the long-term consequences of our actions, considering how they might impact future generations and the overall health of the planet over extended periods of time. It\'s about thinking beyond our immediate needs and desires. **PHILOSOPHICAL VIEWS ON THE ENVIRONMENT** Social Ecology - is a framework and set of ideas in the realm of environmentalism and social theory. It proposes that ecological problems are deeply rooted in social problems, particularly in hierarchical and authoritarian social structures and institutions. PRINCIPLES OF SOCIAL ECOLOGY - Interconnectedness: Social ecology highlights the interconnectedness between social and ecological systems, emphasizing that a change in one area inevitably impacts the other. - Critique of Hierarchy: Social ecologists believe that hierarchical structures and domination within society (such as patriarchy, racism, and class oppression) are closely linked to the domination and exploitation of the environment. - Holistic Approach: The theory promotes a holistic perspective that considers both social and ecological elements in addressing environmental issues, advocating for solutions that are integrative and considerate of the entire system. Social ecology values diversity and complexity, both in ecosystems and human societies, believing that they contribute to resilience, adaptability, and creativity. - Decentralization and Democracy: The movement supports decentralized, democratic decision-making processes that engage communities in managing their social and environmental affairs. - Ethical Relationship with Nature: Social ecology emphasizes fostering an ethical, respectful relationship between humans and the natural world, considering future generations and the planet's overall wellbeing. - Social Change: Recognizing that environmental crises are deeply embedded in societal structures, social ecology advocates for radical social change to create a more sustainable and just society SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT - Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." MAJOR PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION: - Public goods - environmental resources such as water quality, open space, biodiversity, and stable climate. - Prevention principle - harmful activity should be avoided in the case of certain unfavorable consequences. - Precautionary Principle - the polluter-pays principle - best available techniques/technology **THREE IMPORTANT PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABILITY** Environmental integrity - refers to maintaining the state of the environment and that human activities should not unduly disrupt the ecosystems and human communities located in the area. Economic efficiency - refers to prudence in decision-making regarding the use of resources to ensure that there is minimum zero waste. Equity - demands that we use our natural resources in such a manner that these are conserved so that the next generation will be able to use them Our Encounter with the Environment Sacredness of the Environment The environment as part of creation possess an affirmation of a creator---the uncaused cause. Each of the created things shares in the perfection of the creator. The sacredness is a reflection of the goodness and divinity of the Creator. What is your stand about this claim: "Humans are the apex of God's creation; therefore, we have all the right to control and manipulate the environment for human and economic development." The Spirit of Stewardship - As part of creation, human being\'s choice and action influences and affects the unfolding of phenomena in the environment. - Everything in this world is connected to one another. What the human beings does to the environment has a great influence and effect on his/her existence Human Being as the Summit of Creation - According to St. Augustine, human being bears and reveals the divine image of the Creator. He/she is the crowning glory of the creator. - Being a rational being and image of the creator, he/she has to protect and care for the environment. The Complementary Between Human Being and Environment The Spirit of Non-coexistence - Non-coexistence between human and environment happens when humans treat the environment as an object. Another source of the problem is when humans focus more on the development and progress at the expense of the environment. The Spirit of Coexistence - Coexistence is realized when human recognizes his/her dependence in the environment. - The love and care that human being gives to the environment is, in the end, beneficial for his/her survival. Prudence and Frugality Towards the Environment VOCABULARY INTELLECTUAL VIRTUE - Refers to the virtue that inheres to the intellect FRUGALITY - Is the state or character of man being careful when using money or food MOTIVATION - Is the reason that drives a man to do an action PRUDENCE - The ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason TEMPERANCE - Is a moral virtue that sets order to passion in oneself VIRTUE - A trait or quality that is deemed to be morally good ARISTOTLE - is a towering figure in ancient Greek philosophy, who made important contributions to logic, ethics, politics, biology and other fields of study. Aristotle on virtue - Virtue is a good habit bearing on activity. It is the excellence of the soul and of the body - It can be destroyed by the deficiency as well as by the excess of it. Thus, virtue lies in the middle Virtue is a habit. - Virtues are not done in moderation but in a continuous or repetitive act (habit) until it becomes natural for man to act consistently in a given situation. Example Habit - The repetitive act of giving away sweet potato or malunggay leaves for those who ask in the province manifests a habit Prudence is a virtue - Prudence is the intellectual virtue that perfects reasoning in regard to decision making in the realm of human action - Plays an important role to find the middle ground between two extremes and to decide for the best solution in a particular situation. Prudence is a condition for the virtue of liberality. - Liberality, also called generosity or frugality, is the state or character of man having found in the middle of meanness as deficiency and prodigality as excess. Prudence and liberality - Prudence strikes the balance between stinginess (pagkakuripot) and prodigality (pagkawaldas) to achieve the state or character of consistency in a given situation. Example Habit - The repetitive act of giving away sweet potato or malunggay leaves for those who ask in the province manifests a habit. ANTONIO ARGADOÑA - Liberality requires the interplay of prudence and temperance. - Liberality, as a virtue, requires effectiveness, efficiency and consistency - Acts of liberality affects both man and the nature. Example situation - Saving an eight-peso fare for not availing the use of a private vehicle by walking a short distance. **PHILOSOPHICAL VIEWS ON THE NATURE OF MAN: BODY, SOUL AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP** **Unspirited Body** - Humans are only physical beings without a soul or spirit. Everything we do can be explained by biology and physical processes. Thomas Hobbes (Modern) 16th century Basic concept: Human beings are like machines, made of only physical matter. There is no soul or spirit; everything about us is purely biological. The body is the visible and tangible aspect of man, but there is no deeper spiritual reality. Example: A robot functions purely based on its programming. It has no thoughts or feelings-only actions based on commands B.F. Skinner (Contemporary) 19th century Basic concept: Behavior is shaped by environmental conditioning, with no need to consider internal spiritual or mental states. Only observable actions, not invisible thoughts or feelings, are important. Example: In school, if you only behave well because of the reward system (like getting good grades), that\'s conditioning without any deeper thought or feeling involved. **Disembodied Spirit** - Humans are primarily souls, and the body is a temporary vessel. The soul is eternal and can exist without the body. **Plato (Ancient) 400th BCE** Basic Concept: The soul is eternal and exists independently from the body. The body is a temporary vessel that imprisons the soul until death. The soul is the essence of exists and can play man, and the body is just a container for the soul. Example: Like playing a video game: the avatar (body) can die, but the player (soul) still another round. **René Descartes (Modern) 16th Century** Basic Concept: The mind (or soul) is separate from the body and can exist independently. The real \"you\" (res cogitans) is your thinking mind, and the body (res extensa) is just a vessel. Although man is made of both corporeal and spiritual substance, Descartes found their unity ambiguous. Example: The driver (soul) controls the car (body). Even if the car breaks down, the driver is still there and can get out and walk away. **Augustine of Hippo (Medieval) 4th Century** Basic Concept: The soul is immortal and can exist after the body dies. Human beings are truly their souls, and the body is a temporary, earthly shell. The body and soul are distinct, with the soul having greater importance. Example: Think of how some people believe in the afterlife: your body dies, but your soul lives on. **Embodied Spirit** - Humans are made of both body and soul, which are inseparable. The soul gives life and meaning to the body, and together they form the whole person. **Aristotle (Ancient) 300th BCE** Basic concept: The body and soul are united as one; the soul gives life and purpose to the body. The soul is the form of the body and cannot exist without it. This reflects how man is composed of corporeal (body) and spiritual (soul) substances. Example: A computer needs both hardware (body) and software (soul) to work; without one, the other is useless. **Thomas Aquinas (Medieval) 12th Century** Basic concept: The soul is the \'principle of life\' that gives form to the body, making it alive. The body cannot function without the soul. The body is the tangible aspect of man, and the soul enables non- physical activities such as thought, decision-making, and conscience. Example: A video game character\'s body (avatar) needs to interact with the player (soul) for the game to work. Together, they complete the experience. **Gabriel Marcel (Contemporary) 19th Century** Basic concept: The body and soul are deeply connected and inseparable in lived experience. Man is not simply made of body and soul but is an embodied subjectivity where the body performs concrete experiences influenced by the soul. The separation is possible only while we are here on earth in the level of analysis. Subject not Object that performs the concrete experience. Example: Your physical body helps you experience things like emotions, making you who you are without the body, your emotions wouldn\'t be the same. **2 ways to think of a man:** A. Man as Object of Thought B. Man as Subject Experiencing Life