Understanding Self: Philosophical Perspectives PDF

UNDERSTANDING SELF M1 SOCRATES Often considered the father of Western philosophy, famously declared that "the unexamined life is not worth living." He emphasized the importance of self-reflection and critical thinking in the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Socrates encouraged individuals to questi...

UNDERSTANDING SELF M1 SOCRATES Often considered the father of Western philosophy, famously declared that "the unexamined life is not worth living." He emphasized the importance of self-reflection and critical thinking in the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Socrates encouraged individuals to question their beliefs, values, and assumptions, challenging them to seek knowledge and self-understanding through dialogue and inquiry. The goal of philosophy was to "Know thyself". Knowing others is wisdom. Knowing the self is enlightenment, Mastering others requires force. Mastering the self requires strength. "Self-knowledge alone eradicates misery". Self-knowledge alone is the means to the highest bliss. "Absolute perfection is the consummation of Self-knowledge." Knowledge of oneself can be achieved only through the Socratic Method, that is to say, the dialogue between the soul and itself, or between a student and his teacher. Main Idea 1: Socrates emphasized the importance of self-reflection and self-understanding as fundamental to the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Supporting Details: 1. Socrates famously stated that "the unexamined life is not worth living," necessary for self-reflection in leading a meaningful life. 2. Socrates promoted the idea that self-knowledge is the key to enlightenment and inner strength, contrasting it with the mere accumulation of knowledge about others. PLATO He believed that the self is composed of two parts: the rational soul and the irrational appetites. He likened the soul to a charioteer driving a chariot pulled by two horses, representing reason and desire. According to Plato, true knowledge comes from the rational soul's pursuit of truth and virtue, while irrational appetites can lead to ignorance and moral corruption. Plato adopts a dualistic perspective, positing the existence of both an immaterial mind (soul) and a material body, It is the soul that apprehends the forms, existing both before birth and after death. Plato asserts that the soul, rather than the body, s the locus of true knowledge, as it transcends the limitatioris of the senses. Plato underscores the social dimension of human nature. emphasizing our interdependence and the benefits derived from social interactions, talents, and friendships. He divides the soul (mind) into three distinct parts: reason, appetite (physical urges), and will (emotion, passion. spirit). The will serves as the source of various emotions such as love, anger, and ambition. When these aspects are not in harmony, mental conflict ensues, with the will oscillating between reason and the appetites. Plato employs the metaphor of a charioteer (reason) attempting to control horses symbolizing the will and appetites to elucidate this dynamic. Main Idea 2: Plato believed that the human self has two parts, and true knowledge comes from the rational part, while the irrational part can lead to ignorance and moral problems. Supporting Details: 1. The self has two parts: one that thinks logically (the rational soul) and another that feels desires (the irrational appetites). He compared these parts to a charioteer driving a chariot pulled by two horses. 2. Real knowledge comes from the part of us that thinks logicaly and aims for truth and goodness. But if we let our desires control us, it can lead us to not know the truth and do bad things. ARISTOTLE He believed that self is a harmonious integration of various faculties, reason, emotion, and perception. He advocated for eudaimonia, or flourishing, achieved through balanced development of these faculties. Self-awareness is vital for moral and intellectual growth, enabling individuals to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Aristotle defined the soul as the core essence of a living being, but argued against its having a separate existence, For instance, if a knife had a soul, the act of cutting would be that soul, because 'cutting' is the essence of what it is to be a knife. The soul is an activity of the body, it cannot be immortal (when a knife is destroyed, the cutting stops). For Aristotle, "humans have bodies for rational activity," and the potential for rational activity thus constituted the essence of a human soul. Main Idea 3: Aristotle believed that the self is a balanced mix of reason, emotion, and perception, and achieving a happy life (eudaimonia) comes from developing these parts of ourselves in harmony. Supporting Details: 1. Self is made up of different parts, like thinking (reason), feeling (emotion), and sensing (perception). He believed that to have a good life, we need to develop all these parts equally. 2. He taught that being aware of ourselves, including our strengths and weaknesses, is really important for becoming a better person morally and intellectually. ST. AUGUSTINE Augustine integrated Christian theology with philosophical inquiry to explore the nature of the self. He viewed the self as flawed due to original sin, a consequence of Adam and Eve's disobedience, but capable of redemption through divine grace. Augustine emphasized the importance of faith, humility, and moral transformation in understanding the self. He emphasizes the importance of faith, repentance, and adherence to divine commandments. Augustine acknowledged the struggle between earthly desires and spiritual fulfillment and emphasized the ongoing battle between the flesh and the spirit. His perspective underscores humanity's inherent frailty and sinfulness, balanced by the hope of divine forgiveness and redemption. Main Idea 4: St. Augustine believed that the self is flawed because of original sin but can be redeemed through faith and divine grace. Supporting Details: 1. Humans are born with flaws, but they can be saved by God's help. He stressed the importance of having faith in God, being sorry for doing wrong things, and following God's rules. 2. Life was a struggle between wanting earthly things and finding spiritual fulfillment, but he believed that people could change and become better with God's help. RENÉ DESCARTES Descartes proposed a dualistic view of the self, distinguishing between mind and body. He famously asserted, "I think, therefore I am", highlighting the primacy of consciousness in defining the self. Descartes' philosophy laid the groundwork for modern discussions on the nature of consciousness and personal identity. Descartes thought that the self is a thinking thing distinct from the body. His first famous principle is "Cogito, ergo sum", which means "I think, therefore I am," This means that as long as you're thinking, you know you exist. Although the mind and body are physically together as a whole, the mind and body are mentally independent and serve their own function. Man must use his own mind to investigate, analyze, experiment, and develop himself. Main Idea 5: René Descartes believed that the self is made up of two parts, the mind and the body, and emphasized the importance of thinking in defining one's existence. Supporting Details: 1. The self is made of two parts, the mind and the body. He believed that even though they're together physically, they work separately mentally. 2. "I think, therefore I am," which means that if you're thinking, you know you're real. This idea shows that thinking is really important in understanding who we are. M2 The society we live in gives a huge impact on who we are today. It provides social norms, cultural values, and behavioral expectations that influence our identity, beliefs, and behaviors. However, if we do not grow in a society and experience extreme isolation, several significant consequences can occur. Extreme isolation really exists in real-life, and people who experienced it are called "feral children". Feral Children Think about all the things that make you who you are today your language, your manners, your beliefs, and your ability to connect with others. Now, imagine if you didn't have any of that. That's what happens to feral children. Feral children are kids who grow up isolated from society. They might have been abandoned, lost in the wilderness, or raised by animals. Because they don't have contact with people, they missed out on learning all the things we usually pick up from our families, schools, and communities. For example, they might not learn how to speak like we do. Imagine not being able to talk to anyone or understand what they're saying They might also struggle to understand social rules, like how to behave in public or how to make friends. Living without these experiences can be really tough. Feral children often face challenges in communicating, making connections with others, and understanding the world around them. It's like missing out on a big part of growing up, and it can affect them in many ways. Now that we understand the importance of human interaction, learning from others, and being part of a community. It shows us how much we rely on social experiences to become who we are Charles Cooley's The Looking Glass Self Charles, Cooley's concept of the "looking glass self explores how our self-concept is influenced by our perceptions of how others see US This concept revolves around three key components. Firstly, we imagine how others perceive us, envisioning their judgments and reactions to our appearance, behavior, and actions. Secondly, we interpret the feedback we receive from others whether positive or negative, which can significantly impact our self-esteem and self-perceptions Lastly, based on these imagined perceptions and interpreted feedback, we develop a self-evaluation that shapes our sense of identity, values, and beliefs about ourselves In today's society, the looking glass self concept remains highly relevant, especially in the context of social media, peer influence cultural expectations, and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. It emphasizes the social nature of the self and the intricate interplay between individual identity and social influences in shaping who we are. M3 FIVE SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS FAMILY The family is generally regarded as a primary social institution. The institution of family is a basic unit in the society, and the multifaceted functions performed by it makes it a much-needed institution in a society. It is one of the oldest social institutions on the earth. Although families differ widely around the world, they also share certain common concerns in their everyday lives. The family significantly impacts one's identity by serving as the primary socialization agent, teaching values, beliefs, and cultural practices. It provides emotional support, a sense of belonging, and influences behaviors through role modeling and communication patterns. Family dynamics, such as parenting styles and traditions. further shape one's identity by fostering self-esteem and confidence or contributing to identity conflicts and challenges. For example, if a person was raised in a supportive family environment where communication, affection, and empathy are emphasized, the person may grow up with a strong sense of self-worth. On the other hand, if a person was raised in a family with conflict and emotional neglect the person may develop identity challenges. EDUCATION The education system serves as a vital social institution tasked with M educating a society's youth in essential academic knowledge, learning skills, and cultural norms. While education systems exist in every country worldwide, they exhibit differences. The principal factors influencing these systems revolve around the resources and financial allocations dedicated to their sustenance across varying countries. Education shapes identity through knowledge, skills, and exposure to diverse perspectives, influencing beliefs, values, and behaviors. It fosters personal development, critical thinking, and awareness of self and others, impacting future opportunities and societal contributions For example, a person who grows up in a low-income neighborhood where access to quality education is limited is determined to pursue nigher education arid eventually earns a scholarship to a prestigious university. Through their educational journey, they are exposed to diverse perspectives, critical thinking exercises, and opportunities for personal growth. RELIGION The religion functions as a social institution that offers explanations and interpretationis for various aspects of life that may seem mysterious. It provides understanding regarding the causes of events and offers insights into the concepts of birth and death. Monotheistic religions are characterized by belief in a single deity, whereas Polytheistic religions involve worship of multiple deities. Religion imparts identity by shaping beliefs, values, and cultural practices. It influences social interactions and family dynamics providing a sense of belonging and moral guidance. Religion also plays a role, in shaping behaviors, attitudes, and decision-making processes, contributing significantly to personal identity. For example, if an individual grows up participating in religious rituals and traditions, and being taught values such as compassion, forgiveness, and service to others. As they mature, their religious beliefs and practices become integral to their identity, they may prioritize helping those in need, show empathy and understanding towards others. GOVERNMENT A government is an institution tasked with formulating and enforcing societal rules and managing external relations with other societies. For a ruling body to be recognized as a government, it must have the acknowledgment of the people it governs. Without this recognition, an individual or group cannot wield power as the leading authority within a society. The government influences one's identity by providing structure. governance, and regulation within society. It establishes laws, policies. and institutions that shape social norms, values and behaviors. Government actions and decisions impact citizens' rights, freedoms, and opportunities, influencing their sense of belonging, civic engagement, and national identity. For example, the Philippine government has implemented laws and initiatives to protect and promote the rights of indigenous peoples (IPs) and their cultural heritage. Through programs such as the Indigenous Peoples' Rights. Act (IPRA) and the establishment of National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the government recognizes the unique identities, customs, and traditions of IPs. As a result, members of indigenous communities are empowered to preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage, language, and traditional practices. They gain recognition and representation in decision-making processes that affect their communities. strengthening their sense of identity and pride in their cultural heritage. ECONOMY The economy functions as the institution overseeing the production and distribution of goods and services, crucial for meeting the needs of individuals across societies. While some may be self-sufficient others rely on external sources. In such cases, an exchange medium, like currency in industrialized societies or alternative goods/services in nonindustrialized ones, becomes essential 10 The economy affects one's identity by shaping access to resources opportunities, and social status. Economic conditions influence education, employment, and lifestyle choices, impacting individuals sense of security and self-worth. During economic downturns, such as the recent economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, many Filipinos faced job losses, reduced incomes, and financial difficulties. These economic hardships can have a significant impact on one's sense of identity, leading to feelings of insecurity, stress, and a loss of self-worth. For example, individuals who previously held stable jobs may struggle with their identity and self-esteem when faced with unemployment or underemployment due to economic factors beyond their control. LEARNING A CULTURE Enculturation is the process by which individuals intemalize the cultural norms, values, beliefs, and behaviors of their own society or community. This process starts early in life and continues through interactions with family, peers, educational institutions, and other social institutions. Enculturation is fundamental to shaping individuals Identities and socialization, as it provides the foundation for understanding societal expectations, norms, and roles within their cultural context. For example, enculturation can be observed through the traditional practice of "pagmamano." This custom involves younger family members showing respect to their elders by taking their hand and bowing down slightly to touch it to their forehead. Children are taught this practice from a yourg age as part of their upbringing, emphasizing the values of respect within the family. Through regular practice and obse vation of this cultural tradition, children internalize the importance of honoring elders and maintaining harmonious relationships within the household. ACCULTURATION Acculturation involves the exchange and integration of cultural elements between different cultural groups. It occurs when individuals or groups from one culture come into contact with and adopt elements of another culture, leading to cultural change and adaptation. Acculturation can occur through processes such as migration, globalization, trade, colonization, or cultural exchange. It often results in the blending of cultural practices, beliefs, languages. and identities, creating diverse and hybrid cultural expressions. Acculturation can be a dynamic and transformative process that influences individuals' identities, social interactions, and cultural landscapes An example of acculturation is the integration of foreign culinary influences into Filipino cuisine. For instance, our love for Korean samgyeopsal has evolved and the introduction of American fast food chains has popularized dishes like burgers and fries. ASSIMILATION Assimilation refers to the process by which individuals or groups adopt the cultural norms, values, and practices of a dominant or host culture, often at the expense of their own cultural identity. Assimilation typically occurs in contexts where there is pressure or expectation for individuals to conform to the dominant culture, leading Sup to the loss or suppression of cultural heritage, language, and traditions. Assimilation can be a complex and contentious process, as it raises questions about cultural preservation, identity formation, and social integration. An example of assimilation is the adoption of Western clothing styles and fashion trends by the Filipinos. With the influence of mass media, social media platforms, and Western pop culture. Filipino youth have increasingly embraced Western fashion, including jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, and other Western-style clothing. M4 George Herbert Mead's Theory of Social Behaviorism George Herbert Mead (1863-1931) formulated the theory of social behaviorism to explain the influence of social experiences on an individual's personality development. The theory of Social Behaviorism offers valuable insights into how social interactions shape our sense of self and identity. Key Concepts: Social Interaction: Mead's Theory of Social Behaviorism emphasizes the importance of social interaction in the development of the self. According to Mead, the self is not innate but emerges through social experiences and interactions with others. Symbolic Interactionism: At the core of Mead's theory is the concept of symbolic interactionism, which posits that individuals develop a sense of self through the interpretation of symbols and gestures within social contexts. Through communication and interaction with others. individuals learn to understand and interpret the meaning of symbols, such as language, gestures, and societal norms, which shape their sense of self and identity. The "I" and the "Me": Mead introduced the idea of the "I" and the "Me" to explain the dual nature of the self. The "I" represents the spontaneous and impulsive aspect of the self, while the "Me" represents the socialized aspect shaped by societal norms and expectations. The interplay between the "I" and the "Me" influences how individuals perceive themselves and their social roles. Role-Taking: This refers to the ability to understand and adopt the perspectives of others. Through role-taking individuals learn to anticipate how others will react to their actions and adjust their behavior accordingly. Role-taking allows individuals to develop empathy perspective-taking skills, and a sense of social identity. Recognizing the role of social interaction and symbolic M communication in shaping the self, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their own identity development and interpersonal relationships. By emphasizing the role of social interaction, symbolic communication, and role-taking in the development of the self, Mead's theory provides a framework for understanding how S individuals construct their sense of self within social contexts. M5 Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory and Concept of the Self Albert Bandura (December 4, 1925 July 26, 2021) is a famous psychologist who created the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). This theory explains how people learn and behave through a mix of their own thoughts, the actions they take, and the world around them. Key Ideas of Social Cognitive Theory a. Reciprocal Determinism: Your behavior, your personal thoughts and feelings, and your environment all influence each other. Your actions are shaped by both what's around you and what's inside you. b. Observational Learning (Modeling): Learning by watching others. There are four steps: 1. Attention: Paying attention to what others are doing 2. Retention: Remembering what you saw. 3. Reproduction: Being able to do the same thing yourself. 4. Motivation: Wanting to copy the behavior. c. Self-Efficacy: It is believing in your ability to do something. If you think you can do something, you're more likely to try and keep trying, even if it's hard. d. Outcome Expectations: It is thinking about what will happen if you do something. These thoughts help you decide whether or not to do something. Bandura's Concept of the Self Bandura's Concept of the Self encompasses several key components that influence how individuals perceive and regulate their behavior. At the core of this concept is the self-system, which involves how individuals view, evaluate, and control their own actions. This self-system consists of the following a. self-observation, where individuals monitor their own behavior, b. judgmental processes, where they compare their actions to personal standards or goals, and c. self-response, where individuals reward or punish themselves based on their observations. Another important aspect is self-regulation, which involves S controlling one's behavior to achieve desired goals. This process includes: a. setting goals, b. monitoring progress, c. evaluating performance and d. reinforcing or correcting actions as needed. By engaging in self-regulation, individuals can effectively guide their behavior toward desired outcomes. Bandura emphasizes the importance of self-reflective capability, which involves thinking about one's thoughts and actions. This includes self-evaluation, where individuals assess their performance and outcomes, as well as self-efficacy judgments, where individuals evaluate their ability to succeed in future endeavors. Additionally. Bandura discusses the concepts of proxy agency and collective efficacy. Proxy agency refers to seeking assistance from others to achieve personal goals, recognizing the role of social support in goal attainment. Collective efficacy involves believing in the group's ability to work together towards shared objectives, highlighting the importance of collective effort and collaboration in achieving common goals. Bandura's concept of the self underscores the dynamic interplay between individual cognition, behavior, and social context in shaping human agency and achievement. Through self-regulation. reflection, and social interaction, individuals can effectively navigate their environment and pursue personal and collective goals.