Philosophy Presentation PDF

Introduction to philosophy OBJECTIVES At the end of the lesson, the learner is expected to: 1. Distinguish a holistic perspective from a partial point of view; 2. Realize the value of doing philosophy in obtaining a broad perspective on life; and 3. Do a philosophical reflection on a concret...

Introduction to philosophy OBJECTIVES At the end of the lesson, the learner is expected to: 1. Distinguish a holistic perspective from a partial point of view; 2. Realize the value of doing philosophy in obtaining a broad perspective on life; and 3. Do a philosophical reflection on a concrete situation from a holistic perspective. Lesson 1: The Holistic Perspective and Partial Point of View  The word philosophy comes from two Greek words: philos (love) and sophia (wisdom). The ancient Greeks used this term to refer to “love of wisdom” and they soon applied it to the study or discipline that uses human reason to investigate the ultimate causes, reasons, and principles which govern all things. Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.  Philosophy in simple words is a way of thinking about the world, the universe, and society. It works by asking very basic questions about the nature of human thought, the nature of universe, and the connections between them. The ideas in philosophy are often general and abstract. It is also the study of humans and the world by thinking and asking questions. It is a science and an art. Philosophy tries to answer important questions by coming up with answers about real things and asking “why?”. The Most Notable Ancient Greek Philosophers Pythagoras (570 BCE to 495 BCE) A mathematician and scientist, he was credited with formulating the Pythagorean theorem. Heraclitus (535 BCE to 475 BCE) He proposed that everything that exists is based on a higher-order or plan which he called logos. Democritus (460 BCE to 370 BCE) He devoted himself to the study of the causes of natural phenomena. Diogenes of Sinope (412 BCE to 323 BCE) He was a known advocate of living a simple and virtuous life.  Epicurus (341 BCE to 270 BCE) He believed that philosophy could enable man to live a life of happiness. Socrates (470 BCE to 399 BCE) He was considered the foremost philosopher of ancient times. He was credited for formulating the Socratic method (means of examining a topic by devising a series of questions that let the learner examine and analyze his knowledge and views regarding the topic. Plato (427 BCE to 347 BCE) A student of Socrates, he wrote down his mentor’s teaching and incorporated some of his own ideas into them. Plato’s most significant ideas included his Theory of Forms, which proposes that everything that exists is based on an idea or template that can only be perceived in the mind. Plato is also known for his dialectic - a method of inquiry where two opposing ideas are discussed in an attempt to arrive at new knowledge. Plato’s lasting contribution to learning was his founding of the Academy, an institution of higher learning. Aristotle (384 BCE to 322 BCE) He attended the Academy and was a prominent student of Plato. For him, all ideas and views are based on perception and our reality is based on what we can sense and perceive. His studies in logic led to the formulation of a formal process of analyzing reasoning which gives rise to deductive reasoning-the process by which specific statements are analysed to reach a conclusion or generalization.  The Difference between a Holistic Perspective from a Partial Point of View Holistic thinking refers to a perspective that considers large-scale patterns in systems. A holistic perspective requires an individual to have an open mindset and ability to get a general sense or impression regarding a situation. Partial thinking focuses on specific aspects of a situation. The partial view is an important component of analytical thinking, as an individual focuses on certain areas or aspects of a problem to understand it.  The term holistic thinking refers to a big picture mentality in which a person recognizes the interconnectedness of various elements that form larger systems, patterns and objects. Thinking holistically is the opposite of analyzing something, which involves breaking down a larger system into its details. Holistic medicine is a prominent example of holistic thinking. A medical professional who believes in holistic care considers the relationship between the mind, body and spirit. For example, holistic doctors don't just provide patients with medications. Instead, they look at ways to improve life balance and eradicate health problems from their root sources, such as high stress or bad nutrition.  In philosophy, the point of view describes the perception of an event or phenomenon and how exactly it is viewed. The point of view often is shaped by an individual's beliefs or experiences. Though partial thinking is useful, philosophy utilizes holistic thinking in making sense of problems and issues related to the human experience. People tend to apply an analytical perspective when looking at problems or situations. A holistic view gives rise to a more appreciative perspective about life, as we can look at life in its totality. TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF THINKING The Value of Doing Philosophy in Obtaining a Broad Perspective on Life Why do we philosophize? We all have the potential to philosophize since we tend to wonder and doubt. A philosopher is a good communicator who can clearly and adequately present his or her ideas.  Doing philosophy can be applied in day-to-day activities and life perspectives. Because it involves an evaluative process, doing philosophy allows a person to make better decisions and act accordingly to situations with the help of various philosophical skills. From life perspectives, philosophy enables reflective thinking which greatly influences a person’s view of life, challenges, and relationships. In doing philosophy, a holistic perspective on the subject is always required. Failure to do so or only using a partial point of view may lead to illogical or incorrect conclusions.  Plato traced man’s need to philosophize to his sense of wonder. Whenever we are confronted with an experience, we always wonder how it came about.  French philosopher Rene Descartes traced the need to philosophize to doubt. In life, we will be faced with several ideas and arguments which present themselves as “truths”. A critical and questioning perspective is necessary to determine if indeed these ideas or views are correct or true. Swiss-German philosopher Karl Jaspers saw the need to philosophize because of experience. These experiences limit situation, philosophy provides us a means to understand adverse or challenging conditions, and to rise above them and gain new knowledge and perspective.  The need to philosophize is driven by the love for wisdom. To love wisdom is to have an insatiable desire for truth. Philosophy itself is a distinct area of knowledge with its own goals, concerns, and ways of doing things. Doing a Philosophical Reflection on a Situation from a Holistic Perspective The statement “life is not a bed of roses” implies that as human beings we live life confronted with issues, challenges, problems and concerns, big or small, that affects our way of thinking. It is on this premise that men are seeking ways on how to deal with life situations. Reflection requires a person to be willing to examine one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions and to learn more about one’s life and experiences. Human self-reflection is the capacity of humans to exercise introspection and to attempt to learn more about their fundamental nature and essence. Philosophy has an important place in our daily lives. Engaging in philosophical reflection leads to the development of beneficial skills that individuals can apply in everyday situations. An individual reflects philosophically when he builds on previous actions, events, or decisions.  According to the words of Socrates, the great Greek philosopher, “the unexamined life is not worth living.” Reflection is vital in ensuring that our actions and decisions are well thought out and are done with due regard for their implications and consequences on ourselves, others, and our surroundings. When we reflect, we can judge whether our actions or decisions are reasonable or not.  Doing Philosophy enables a person to engage in critical analysis and interpretation of concepts, definitions, arguments, and problems. Doing Philosophy also improves problem- solving and decision making. The ability to analyze a problem or dilemma, identify the significant aspects, and come up with alternative solutions is an important skill learned through philosophy.  In the process of doing philosophy, it is critical to have a holistic point of view-the perception of looking at all aspects of a situation first before concluding. Wisdom as it refers to a person’s ability to apply knowledge to daily life particularly in making sound choices and judgment is the intended product of philosophizing. Finally, knowledge of Philosophy can contribute to self-development.  Examples of activities that emanated from a deliberate reflection  Learning from your previous mistakes and not repeating them again  Evaluating and knowing the best choice from a set of options  Gaining a holistic point of view first before making any conclusion Is holistic and partial thinking the same? Partial thinking is a way of thinking that focuses on the specific aspects of the situation. The partial view is an important component of analytical thinking, in certain areas or aspects of the problem to understand it. Holistic thinking refers to a perspective that considers a large-scale pattern in systems. This is often described as looking at the “big picture” when describing and analyzing a situation or a problem. A holistic perspective requires an individual to have an open mind-set and ability to get a sense or impression regarding a situation.  Also, a holistic perspective enables a person to step back and consider the general aspects of a certain problem. It gives rise to a more appreciative aspect of life, as we can look at life in its totality. This means that we try to understand a situation from different advantage points so we can see it more clearly. We experience and appreciate life in its entirety and not just its specific “flavors” of happiness, sadness, sorrows, etc. We learn to value and recognize our individual experiences as important aspects of a larger and more meaningful life.  Our ability to engage in philosophical reflection help us develop beneficial skills, which are deemed important in our daily situation such as: 1. Philosophy enables a person to develop a critical and analytical mindset in processing information and addressing certain issues encountered in life. – Our ability to critically think helps us from being tricked by false claims and manipulative schemes. 2. Philosophy helps us develop problem-solving and decision-making skills. – It is through our engagement with the philosophy that we learn how to analyze a problem and come up with alternative solutions is very important skill learned through philosophy. 3. Philosophy trains us to become precise and clear in presenting our ideas and thoughts. – As we engage in discussion and debate, philosophy enables us to convey our ideas precisely and clearly. 4. Philosophy contributes greatly to the self- development of a person. – In our quest to become a better version of our self, philosophy encourages us to understand our self, our strength and weaknesses, our identity and our very purpose in life along with our engagement in the community the nation and the world. REFERENCES 1. Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person by Roberto D. Abella, 2016, C&E Publishing, Inc. 2. Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person by Brenda Corpuz, R.A. Paclibar, M.L.C Paclicbar, 2016, Loremar Publishing Inc. 3. Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person by Christine Carmela R. Ramos, 2016, Rex Bookstore Inc. 4. Retrieved form https://www.patheos.com/blogs/driventoabstraction/2018/07/blind- men-elephant-folklore-knowledge/ 5. 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