GED 101 Notes PDF

GED 101 NOTES Self and Identity Social, Environmental, and other Life Factors (S.E.L.F) Issues on Understanding the Self Scholars from various fields (theorists, scientists, philosophers) have explored and deb...

GED 101 NOTES Self and Identity Social, Environmental, and other Life Factors (S.E.L.F) Issues on Understanding the Self Scholars from various fields (theorists, scientists, philosophers) have explored and debated the nature, existence, and dimensionality of the self. Nature vs. Nurture Nature: Studies the self structurally and functionally, from the molecular level to human physiological systems. Genetics plays a significant role, focusing on heredity (transmission of traits and characteristics) and the characterization of organisms. Nurture: Social Sciences view the self as a product of nurturing factors within one’s social life. Insights from social sciences highlight how group life (formal and informal) influences behavior and attitudes, emphasizing the impact of social institutions on self-construal. Self vs. Identity Identity: Defined as “the qualities, beliefs, etc., that make a particular person or group different from others… or the distinguishing character or personality of an individual.” Self: Defined as “the person that someone normally or truly is… or the entire person of an individual.” UNI vs. MULTI Dimensionality of the Self Multidimensional: The Self/Identity cannot be represented by a single trait; it is composed of multidimensional aspects. We are a product of various multidimensional factors. Multidimensionality of the Self GED 101 NOTES 1  Social Factors of the Self Influences of significant people: These include the social groups where an individual identifies oneself. Strong foundations: Characteristics acquired from social groups during growing up years form our identity, uniqueness, and similarities with others. Family Peer Groups Organizations Other significant people (e.g., teachers, role models, relatives) Environmental Factors of the Self Physical and communal elements: These are present in our everyday surroundings and are dealt with by individuals in specific geographic regions. Broader context: Includes physical properties (climate, landforms) and societal expectations and norms. Example: A person growing up in a competitive city may develop traits like resilience and communication skills to adapt and survive, which become integral parts of their identity. Hereditary Factors of the Self Biological process: Traits and characteristics passed from one generation to another. Non-negotiable factor: Unlike social and environmental factors, heredity is relatively fixed and permanent. Physical Attributes: Height, complexion, eye color Cognitive Traits: IQ Other Personal Characteristics Person-Volition Factor of the Self Controversial factor: Refers to the inclination to form a unique identity, setting oneself apart from others. Internal and experiential: Emanates from within but is influenced by social-life experiences. Non-conformist: Often seen as deviant by social scientists but can lead to being trend-setters, discoverers, and inventors. Philosophical Views about the Self Philosophy the study of nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. GED 101 NOTES 2  Philosophy of Self has been defined through two distinct Philosophical Lens: Empiricism explanation of the self from sensory and bodily responses. We know things because we have experience it through our bodily senses. Rationalism explains self from the standpoint of what is “ideal” and “truth”, it is not rooted in what is felt in our senses nor body. SPA Stands for Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Socrates The ancient Philosophy of self can be traced back from the Ancient Greek Aphorism One of the 146 Aphorism is inscribed in the temple of Apollo at Delphi The aphorism (or principle) was used by Socrates as his guiding principle that he passed on to his students. Socrates only discussed his concepts and principles with his students and never wrote it down. Socrates believed that the real self is not the physical body, but rather the psyche (soul). He insisted that the appearance of the body is inferior to its functions. Plato Socrates’ most prized/treasured student He thoroughly explained Socrates’ ideas of self. Phaedrus is a popular text in the subject of Philosophy and written by Plato itself, he also introduced the conceptualization of self in this dialogue. The main idea in Phaedrus is about truth-seeking, and that the truth can be distinguished in two forms: the Metaphysical Realm (mind) and the Physical World (body). Plato split the truth or reality into two: Ontos (ideal) and Phenomena Ontos - the ultimate reality which tend to be permanent and spiritual. Phenomena - the manifestation of ideal. Imperfect, Impermanent, and inferior to the latter. Aristotle Plato’s most prized/treasured student He expounded and formalized Plato’s idea of the truth about self. GED 101 NOTES 3  Plato emphasized the separation of ideal and phenomenal existence/being, Aristotle suggested that the ideal of subsumed in phenomena. He called ideal as “ essence “ and Phenomena as “ matter “ He emphasized that the two co-exist and are co-dependent, in which the essence provides the meaning and purpose to the matter and the matter provides substance and solidity to essence. ​ Orientation Philosophy Description Philosopher​ ​ Classical Antiquity​ ​ Knowledge is the personification of good while Ignorance is that of evil.​ Socrates​ Idealism​ Socratic Philosophy​ Self-knowledge is the ultimate virtue. As the ultimate virtue, it will lead to ultimate happiness.​ Moral virtue is rooted in the intellect and leads to happiness.​ Plato​ Idealism​ Dualism and Idealism​ Wisdom and knowledge leads to virtue which will lead to happiness.​ ​ Ideal is found inside the phenomena and the universals inside the particulars.​ Ideals are ESSENCE.​ Aristotle​ Empiricist​ Aristotelian Philosophy​ Phenomena is MATTER.​ Matter has no form. Essence has no mass.​ Matter and Essence need each other.​ MIDDLE AGES GED 101 NOTES 4  All knowledge leads to God. Only the pure in heart can see God. Love of God, faith St. Augustine Platonism Neoplatonism in Him, and Understanding of his Gospel will ultimately lead to Happiness. RENAISSANCE “ I think, therefore, I am “ The mind and soul can exist without the body Establishing the Descartes Rationalist Mind-Body Dualism distinction of soul from the body can make people believe in the afterlife and the soul’s immortality. The consciousness alone that the identity exist, not on the body and soul. Theory of Personal There is a Locke Empiricist Identity distinction between a man and person. The soul may change, but the consciousness remains intact. All knowledge passes through the senses. Separate ideas Hume Empiricist Skeptical Philosophy can be joined in the mind. There is no self, only a bundle of perceptions. Kant Rationalist/Empiricist Metaphysics of the Reason is the final Self authority of morality. There is Inner self and Outer self Inner self - rational reasoning and psychological state Outer self - body GED 101 NOTES 5  and mind, where representation occurs. MODERN TIMES “ I act, therefore, I am “ The mind is not the seat of self. It is not a separate, parallel thing to our Ryle Empiricist The Concept of Mind physical body. The mind is a category mistake, the only way it can affect the other is through the external world. A fully matured neuroscience will eliminate the need for beliefs since Churchland Empiricist Neurophilosophy “they are not real” The physical brain gives us a sense of self. Both empiricism Existentialism, Phenomenology of and intellectualism is Merleau-Ponty Empiricist Perception flawed in nature. We are our bodies Scientific Views about the Self The Science of the Self Definition of Science: Intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. Study of the Self: Explained through scientific methods, divided into: Physical Sciences: Focus on biological factors, growth, maturation, and environmental influences. Social Sciences: Concerned with institutions, society, and interpersonal relationships. Hard vs Soft Science Biological Science Historical Context: Aristotle: Scientific approach to human experience. GED 101 NOTES 6  Charles Darwin: Evolutionary theory and Natural Selection. Genetics: Study of how genes from parents contribute to offspring characteristics. Physical Perspective: Understanding of the self through the study of the human body and consciousness. Neurophilosophy Key Figures: Paul and Patricia Churchland. Focus: Association of the brain and the mind. Key Concepts: Understanding the brain’s functions and wave activity. Philosophical notions of free will, common sense, and conscientiousness explained through neuroscience. Connection between consciousness, worldviews, beliefs, and brain physiology. Psychoneuroimmunology Assumptions: Draws parallels between immune system function and the shaping of the self. Key Concepts: Body’s rejection of harmful foreign matter and integration of beneficial matter. Individuals reject harmful environmental factors and embrace helpful external experiences. Discovery of self involves capitalizing on innate attributes and selective acceptance of external influences. The Science of the Self Definition of Science: Intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. Study of the Self: Explained through scientific methods, divided into: Physical Sciences: Focus on biological factors, growth, maturation, and environmental influences. Social Sciences: Concerned with institutions, society, and interpersonal relationships. Hard vs Soft Science Biological Science Historical Context: GED 101 NOTES 7  Aristotle: Scientific approach to human experience. Charles Darwin: Evolutionary theory and Natural Selection. Genetics: Study of how genes from parents contribute to offspring characteristics. Physical Perspective: Understanding of the self through the study of the human body and consciousness. Neurophilosophy Key Figures: Paul and Patricia Churchland. Focus: Association of the brain and the mind. Key Concepts: Understanding the brain’s functions and wave activity. Philosophical notions of free will, common sense, and conscientiousness explained through neuroscience. Connection between consciousness, worldviews, beliefs, and brain physiology. Psychoneuroimmunology Assumptions: Draws parallels between immune system function and the shaping of the self. Key Concepts: Body’s rejection of harmful foreign matter and integration of beneficial matter. Individuals reject harmful environmental factors and embrace helpful external experiences. Discovery of self involves capitalizing on innate attributes and selective acceptance of external influences. Psychology Definition: Study of human behavior. Theoretical Perspectives: Various theories explain the self, including social and personality psychology. Key Constructs: Self-awareness, self-construal, self-esteem, self- efficacy, self-regulation. Importance: Psychology significantly contributes to the understanding of the self as a theoretical construct. Sociology Definition: Study of collective behavior within society. Focus: Social problems, institutions, and relationships. GED 101 NOTES 8  Impact: Examines how social institutions and relationships influence thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Anthropology Definition: Science of human beings and their ancestors. Focus: Physical character, environmental and social relations, and culture. Context: Provides insights into societal development and its impact on generations. Political Science Focus: Participation in government and political choices. Key Concepts: Ideologies, advocacies, and political behavior. Impact: Examines how political participation and choices contribute to selfhood. Economics Definition: Study of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Focus: Economic activities, valuation of products and services, and their impact on the self. Impact: Economic activities shape value systems and sense of self. The Self Before, During, and After the Pandamic 1. The Impact of Childhood on Mental Health Environment: Anxiety builds up from childhood experiences to the present. Home Environment: How you are treated at home plays a significant role in shaping your mental health. Unresolved Issues: Past traumas or unresolved issues may trigger present emotional difficulties. Development: "It's easier to build a child than to repair a broken man." Early emotional support is crucial for long-term mental health stability. 2. Symptoms of Mental Health Struggles Sleep Disturbances: Trouble sleeping or lack of dreams. Appetite Changes: Loss of appetite. Emotional Numbness: Lack of excitement, even in areas like physical or sexual interest. Low Mood: Persistent feelings of fear, sadness, and an inability to experience joy. GED 101 NOTES 9  Loss of Interest: Losing interest in activities once enjoyed. Uncontrollable Emotions: Difficulty managing emotional responses. 3. Is Stress Always Bad? Moderate Stress: Can enhance performance and efficiency. Too Little Stress: May lead to boredom and stagnation. Too Much Stress: Leads to unproductive anxiety. 4. Stressors: Identifying the Cause Stressors are situations, activities, or relationships that cause physical, emotional, or psychological distress. 5. Social Media and Mental Health Platforms: Usage of Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook can increase feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Causes: Indirect Communication: Limits emotional engagement. Cyberbullying and Stalking: Can contribute to feelings of anxiety and isolation. 6. How Anxiety Affects the Body Emotionally: Tearfulness, irritability, lowering of mood, and loss of enjoyment. Cognitively: Reduced concentration, low self-esteem, and a pessimistic outlook on life. Physically: Sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Behaviorally: Slowed movements, thoughts of self-harm, and reduced libido. 7. Understanding Self-Harm and Suicide Self-Harm: Common among 11-25 year-olds, often a way to express control over emotions or re-enact trauma. Forms of Self-Harm: Cutting, burning, hair pulling, ingesting toxic substances, and reckless behaviors. Suicide Risk Factors: Untreated mental illness, previous attempts, alcohol misuse, family history of suicide. 8. Mental Health in the Philippines GED 101 NOTES 10  Prevalence: 6 million Filipinos are estimated to have depression or anxiety, making it one of the highest in the Western Pacific. Suicide Rate: Increased by 25.7% in 2020, now the 27th leading cause of death. 9. The SELF: A Vital Component in Mental Health Treat Yourself as Home: Listen to your body, acknowledge your weaknesses, and be proactive in healing. Family as Support System: Communication, mutual understanding, and trust are key for emotional stability. Friends as Extensions: Reaching out, offering support, and spending time together, even online, strengthens emotional bonds. 10. The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Mental Health for Everyone: Like physical health, mental health is an integral part of our well-being. Normalizing Emotions: Negative emotions are part of life, but prolonged negative feelings can signal deeper issues. Addressing Stigma: It's important to talk openly about mental health and seek help when needed. 11. How to Support Others with Mental Health Problems Be Supportive: Ask how they are, show that you care. Be Patient: Let them set the pace for seeking help. Avoid Harmful Phrases: Statements like "Snap out of it" or "Things could be worse" can do more harm than good. Helpful Statements: "Thank you for telling me," "I'm here for you," or "You're not alone." 12. Managing Stress and Mental Health Stress Management Techniques: Deep breathing exercises Regular exercise Limiting social media Establishing routines Practicing mindfulness Self-Care Strategies: Take care of basic needs, seek social support, and make time for relaxation activities. GED 101 NOTES 11  Physical Self Unit 1: The Physical Dimension of Self This unit addresses how our bodies grow, develop, and mature over time. It also delves into the interaction between heredity, maturation, and environment in shaping our physical attributes. Key Concepts: 1. Heredity Definition: The transmission of traits from parents to offspring through genes. Key Terms: Chromosomes: Contain genetic information; humans have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs). Autosomes: The first 22 pairs of chromosomes. Sex Chromosomes: The 23rd pair (XX for females, XY for males). Genes: Units of heredity that carry genetic traits. Genome: The complete set of genetic material. DNA: Contains instructions for biological development. Genotype: Genetic makeup that determines specific traits. Phenotype: Physical expression of the genotype (e.g., hair color). Alleles: Versions of a gene; dominant alleles show their effect with one copy, while recessive alleles require two copies. 2. Maturation Maturation refers to the process of becoming physically mature and developing the skills necessary for life. 3. Environment Environmental factors like nutrition, culture, and lifestyle can influence physical development alongside genetics. Unit 2: The Sexual Dimension of Self This unit explores the sexual development of individuals, gender identity, objectification, and societal attitudes toward sexual identity. Key Concepts: 1. Sexual Development Physical changes during puberty and adulthood are part of sexual maturation. These changes affect reproductive capability and sexual identity. GED 101 NOTES 12  2. Gender Identity Gender identity refers to one’s personal experience of gender, which may or may not align with biological sex. Society’s views on gender and sexuality are diverse and can influence how individuals perceive and express their sexual identity. 3. Objectification of Human Bodies Objectification occurs when people are viewed as objects, primarily in terms of physical appearance or sexual worth. 4. Society’s Attitudes Toward Sexual Identity and Behavior Societal norms can shape how sexual identities and behaviors are viewed, often creating pressure to conform to certain standards. Nature vs. Nurture in Physical and Sexual Development Nature (Heredity): Refers to the traits we inherit from our parents, influencing our physical appearance and predispositions. Nurture (Environment): The experiences and surroundings that shape our development beyond what is genetically inherited. Key Points: Heredity plays a major role in physical traits like eye color, height, and certain health conditions. Maturation is the biological unfolding of genetic potential, while the environment can either enhance or hinder this process. Gender identity is influenced by both biological factors and cultural contexts, making it a complex and individualized experience. Objectification and societal pressures around sexuality can affect self- esteem and body image. Sexual Self Key Concepts: 1. Sexual Self Defined Sexual selfhood refers to how an individual perceives themselves as a sexual being. Sexual self-schema focuses on cognitive attributions and evaluations of one’s sexual identity. Sexual subjectivity centers on physical esteem and the right to sexual pleasure. Sexual self-concept (SSC) is the most researched model, encompassing cognitive, affective, interpersonal, behavioral, and physiological aspects of sexuality, along with desire and arousal. GED 101 NOTES 13  2. Genderbread Person 2.0 Gender is not binary but exists on a spectrum. It includes gender identity, gender expression, and biological sex. Gender Identity: One’s internal understanding of being male, female, or other (e.g., genderqueer, two-spirit). Gender Expression: The outward display of gender, which may or may not align with biological sex (e.g., masculine, feminine, androgynous). Biological Sex: Refers to physical attributes such as genitals, hormones, and chromosomes (male, female, intersex). Attraction: Can be based on gender identity and sexual orientation (e.g., heterosexual, homosexual, pansexual). Sexual Orientation vs. Sexual Preference Sexual Orientation: Innate attraction toward individuals of the same sex, opposite sex, or both. It is not a matter of choice (heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality). Sexual Preference: Refers to a person’s voluntary attraction to one gender over another. While often confused with sexual orientation, preference suggests more of a choice, whereas orientation is generally viewed as innate. Sexual Orientation Continuum Sexual orientation exists on a continuum, meaning individuals may experience attraction at various points along this spectrum. It’s not a fixed identity but can evolve over time. Gender Identity & Expression 1. Gender Identity Refers to one’s internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or anywhere along the gender spectrum. Gender identity is a deeply personal and private experience. 2. Gender Expression The external manifestation of gender, including how one dresses, behaves, and interacts with others. Expression can range from masculine to feminine and everything in between, regardless of biological sex. Common Misconceptions (Learning Checkpoint) 1. Sex is all about pleasure or sexual desire. GED 101 NOTES 14  Disagree: Sexuality encompasses more than just physical desire. It includes emotional connections, self-identity, and societal influences. 2. Sex and Gender are the same. Disagree: Gender is a social construct related to roles and identity, while sex refers to biological characteristics. 3. Sexuality is fluid and can change over time. Agree: Many individuals experience shifts in their sexual preferences and orientation throughout their lives. Sexual orientation and sexual preference are different Gender identity and expression are fluid and can differ from biological sex. Mental and Emotional Unit 1: Cognition, Memory, and Intelligence Key Concepts: 1. Developmental Milestones: Born with innate capabilities. Initial reliance on senses leads to reactions and reflexes. Maturation involves observation, analysis, and logical thinking. 2. Memory Levels: Sensory Memory: Shortest memory duration (0.5 seconds). Processes stimuli through senses. Attention is crucial for transferring information to the next level. Short-term/Working Memory: Holds useful information for immediate tasks. Long-term Memory: Stores information for extended periods. 3. Intelligence: Defined as capacity for logic, understanding, self-awareness, learning, creativity, and problem-solving. Intelligence is not just knowing but applying knowledge in relevant contexts. Influenced by both hereditary and environmental factors. Theories of Intelligence: 1. Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Theory: GED 101 NOTES 15  Types of Intelligence: Verbal-Linguistic: Language skills. Logical-Mathematical: Problem-solving and reasoning. Visual-Spatial: Understanding visual information. Musical: Sensitivity to sound. Naturalistic: Recognition of natural patterns. Bodily-Kinesthetic: Physical coordination and dexterity. Interpersonal: Understanding others’ emotions. Intrapersonal: Self-awareness. 2. Sternberg's Triarchic Theory: Three Aspects of Intelligence: Componential (Analytical): Abstract thinking and logical reasoning. Experiential (Creative): Ability to deal with novel situations. Contextual (Practical): Application of knowledge in real-world scenarios. 3. Emotional Intelligence: Bar-On (1997): Non-cognitive abilities impacting success in coping with environmental demands. Mayer, Salovey, and Caruso (2004): Reasoning about emotions enhances thinking. Goleman (2005): Recognizing and managing emotions in ourselves and others. Unit 2: Emotional Regulation Adolescence: A turbulent developmental phase marked by biological, psychological, and social changes. Emotional challenges lead to the formation of values and risk-taking behaviors. Importance of curbing impulsivity and developing emotional maturity for future planning. Emotional Regulation Strategies: Ten Common Strategies: 1. Rumination 2. Distraction GED 101 NOTES 16  3. Acceptance 4. Problem Solving 5. Behavioral Avoidance 6. Experiential Avoidance 7. Expressive Suppression 8. Reappraisal 9. Mindfulness 10. Worry Factors Influencing Strategy Use: Individual characteristics External stimuli Regulation goals Nature of emotion Cognitive resources Characteristics of Emotionally Mature Individuals: 1. Self-control: Managing impulses. 2. Trustworthiness: Honesty and integrity. 3. Conscientiousness: Responsibility for actions. 4. Adaptability: Flexibility in handling change. 5. Innovation: Openness to new ideas. 6. Empathy: Understanding others’ perspectives. Cultural Self Key Concepts: 1. Socio-Cultural Influence on Self: Our development is shaped by social factors, from our family (microsystem) to larger societal structures (macrosystem). Cultural contexts define values, beliefs, and norms that influence personal development and social behavior. Key Theories: Ecological Systems Theory (Bronfenbrenner): Microsystem: Immediate relationships (family, school, peers) directly impacting the individual. GED 101 NOTES 17  Mesosystem: Interactions between microsystem elements (e.g., family- teacher relationships). Exosystem: Indirect influences (parent’s workplace, societal institutions). Macrosystem: Cultural and societal context shaping values and laws. Stages of Self Development (Mead, 1934): 1. Preparatory Stage: Imitation without understanding. 2. Play Stage: Role-playing and developing social skills. 3. Game Stage: Understanding multiple roles and societal expectations. I vs. Me (Mead, 1934): I: The spontaneous, unsocialized self. Often egocentric. Me: The socialized self, aware of societal expectations and others' opinions. Cultural Dimensions of the Self: Individualism vs. Collectivism (Triandis, 1988): Individualist Cultures: Prioritize personal goals and independence (e.g., Western cultures). Collectivist Cultures: Emphasize group harmony, interdependence, and societal roles (e.g., Asian cultures). Individualism: Identity from personal traits. Value self-expression and personal achievement. Collectivism: Identity from belonging to a group. Value group goals, duties, and relationships. Influences on Behavior: Family: First socializing agents, influencing beliefs, habits, and decision- making. Peers and Siblings: Sharpen socialization skills through interaction and conflict resolution. School and Work: Develop social roles and prepare for wider societal involvement. Digital Self Identity: Personal vs. Social Identity GED 101 NOTES 18  Personal Identity: Unique characteristics that define an individual (e.g., personality, beliefs). Social Identity: Often based on group affiliations (e.g., nationality, religion, social circles). Identity Paradigm Shift: Modern Identity (Enlightenment to 20th Century): Fixed, stable, unitary. Post-Modern Identity (Now): Fluid, multiple, socially constructed. One person may embody different roles in different contexts (e.g., a mother at home, a lawyer at work). Sherry Turkle's Conception of Identity Identity is Contextual: Different settings bring out different aspects of identity (e.g., at a party vs. a church). Internet & Identity: The internet allows for disembodiment—separating one's soul/spirit from the physical body, facilitating flexible identity presentation. Digital Identity Digital Identity (DI): The persona individuals present across their digital spaces. Online Disinhibition (Suler, 2004): People tend to loosen up, become less restrained, and express themselves more openly in virtual spaces compared to face-to-face interactions. Key Concepts in Online Identity 1. Dissociative Anonymity: Virtual interactions allow people to hide aspects of their identity, separating their real-life behavior from their virtual one (e.g., "My virtual behaviors aren't really me"). 2. Invisibility: In virtual spaces, invisibility gives people the courage to do things they wouldn't do in person. Virtual invisibility encourages less inhibited expressions. 3. Asynchronicity: Virtual communication is often asynchronous, meaning interactions don’t happen in real-time. This creates a "safe" space where people can post emotional or hostile messages and "run away," without immediately facing the consequences (e.g., "emotional hit and run"). GED 101 NOTES 19  4. Solipsistic Introjection: Without seeing or hearing virtual companions, people assign traits to them, making interactions feel more like imagination. Sometimes, people may project themselves onto their virtual companions, leading to greater disinhibition. 5. Dissociative Imagination: The virtual world can feel separate from reality, like a game. People often behave differently in virtual "fantasy worlds" than in real- life interactions. 6. Minimized Authority: In the real world, authority is signaled by status markers like clothing or body language, but in virtual spaces, these are stripped away. This leads to a feeling of equality, where people are more likely to speak out or misbehave without fear of disapproval or punishment from authority figures. Material and Economic Self 1. Material Culture: The Study of 'Things' Definition: Material culture refers to the study of physical objects (artifacts) that are part of everyday life. These artifacts are not just functional but also carry cultural and personal significance. 2. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: The Importance of 'Things' Core Idea: The things that surround us are inseparable from our identity. Objects are not neutral—they shape and reflect who we are. Key Takeaway: Our relationship with material objects influences our sense of self. For example, personal belongings can symbolize status, memories, or aspects of identity. 3. John Heskett: Utility and Significance of Everyday Things Utility and Significance: Everyday objects serve both practical functions and hold deeper meanings. Their design reflects human needs, but they also communicate social values. Key Takeaway: Even the simplest objects, like a chair or a cup, carry both utility (how they are used) and significance (what they symbolize or represent). 4. Roland Barthes: Objects as a System of Signs Objects as Signs: Everyday objects are part of a complex system of signs that communicate meaning. They are not just neutral items but symbols GED 101 NOTES 20  that convey social, cultural, and personal meanings. Key Concept - Semiotics: Barthes' theory of semiotics explains how objects function as signs that we "read" to understand the people and places around us. Example: A designer handbag is not just a bag; it signifies wealth, status, and fashion taste. Summary of Key Theorists Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: Objects are deeply intertwined with our identity; they shape who we are. John Heskett: Everyday objects serve a dual purpose of utility and significance. Roland Barthes: Objects are part of a system of signs that allow us to read deeper meanings into our environment. Spiritual Self, Political Self, Digital Citizenship, Future Self SPIRITUAL SELF FEAR: Two Meanings 1. Forget Everything And Run: Fear can cause us to avoid challenges or uncomfortable situations. 2. Face Everything And Rise: Fear can be a motivator to confront challenges and grow. 3. An acronym for False Evidence Appearing Real. H.P. Lovecraft on Fear: Fear is the oldest and strongest emotion of mankind, with the most primal fear being that of the unknown. Xenophobia Xenophobia is the irrational fear of that which is perceived to be foreign or strange. Spirituality vs. Religiosity 1. Spirituality: Concerned with finding meaning and purpose in life beyond physical reality. Involves personal philosophical rationalizations about life’s events. Focuses on what meaning we assign to our lives rather than discovering a universal meaning. 2. Religiosity: GED 101 NOTES 21  Involves adherence to a belief system and practices associated with a tradition. Religiosity requires agreement on beliefs and practices within a religious group. Parapsychology The scientific study of paranormal psychological phenomena, including: 1. Extra-sensory Perception (ESP) 2. Psychokinesis 3. Survival of consciousness after death Paranormal Phenomena ESP Categories: 1. Telepathy: Transfer of thoughts between individuals. 2. Clairvoyance: Perception of events or objects not available to the senses. 3. Precognition: Foretelling future events. 4. Psychokinesis: Influence on material objects using thought. 5. Out-of-Body Experiences: Detachment of consciousness from the body. Sleep Paralysis & Astral Projection: Sleep Paralysis: A phenomenon during REM sleep where the body remains paralyzed, sometimes accompanied by hallucinations. Astral Projection: The belief in the ability to separate the astral body from the physical body and travel beyond the physical plane. Spirit Possession Accounts of spirit possession exist across cultures and religious traditions. Glossolalia (Speaking in Tongues): A form of vocalization that resembles language but lacks semantic meaning. Commonly believed to be spiritual or divine in origin. Illuminati & Freemasonry 1. Illuminati: A secret society formed in 1776 by Adam Weishaupt. GED 101 NOTES 22  Its alleged goal is to establish a New World Order through control over world events, politics, and institutions. Believed to manipulate global powers and use esoteric knowledge for domination. 2. Freemasonry: A fraternal organization dating back to medieval Europe, originally tied to stone workers and guilds. Involves rituals, symbols (e.g., Compass and Square), and a belief in a higher power (the "Great Architect"). Some conspiracy theories link Freemasonry with the Illuminati. Concepts to Know: 1. Possession vs. Astral Projection: Possession: Involves belief in spirits controlling an individual, common in various cultures. Astral Projection: Voluntary separation of the astral body for spiritual or exploratory purposes. 2. The Astral Body: Considered the "double" of the human body, providing consciousness. The astral body is connected to the physical body by the silver cord, which remains intact during out-of-body experiences. POLITICAL SELF Politics Politics = Power Politics is frequently about who holds power and how they wield it. Leadership is not always a core component. Active Citizenship Definition: Active citizenship involves engaging with political and social processes to contribute to society’s welfare. It is not limited to voting but includes various forms of participation. Importance to Democracy: Democracy thrives when citizens are informed, active, and willing to engage in dialogue and decision-making. Social Construct: GED 101 NOTES 23  Active citizenship helps foster a sense of belonging and responsibility within a community. DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP Characteristics of Gen Z Diversity: Gen Z is known for their emphasis on inclusivity, advocating for various identities and perspectives. Digital Natives: This generation grew up with technology, impacting their social interactions and worldview. Mental Health Awareness: Gen Z faces unique mental health challenges due to constant connectivity and exposure to social pressures online. Political Progressiveness: Gen Z is often vocal about social and political issues, advocating for change and equality. Key Aspects of Digital Citizenship 1. Respecting, Educating, and Protecting Digital citizenship emphasizes respect for others online, continuous self- education, and safeguarding personal information and wellbeing. 2. Digital Self and Identity Technology shapes self-identity and behavior, with online disinhibition allowing people to express themselves more openly (or aggressively) than they might in person. 3. Nine Themes of Digital Citizenship Digital Access: Ensuring everyone can participate in the digital world. Digital Commerce: Involves buying and selling online. Digital Communication: Exchanging information electronically. Digital Literacy: Learning and utilizing technology effectively. Digital Etiquette: Following proper conduct online. Digital Law: Adhering to ethical standards online. Digital Rights and Responsibilities: Understanding freedoms and duties. Digital Health and Wellness: Maintaining wellbeing in a digital context. Digital Security: Keeping personal data safe. GED 101 NOTES 24  Important Considerations: Technology and Identity: While technology offers limitless opportunities, it should enhance life rather than define it. Balance digital engagement with personal development. FUTURE SELF, TIME, AND CHOICES Time Man waits for time, but time waits for no man! Time is a limited resource. Reflect on whether you are using your time meaningfully to connect with others and achieve personal goals. Future Uncertain but Preparable: While the future is unknown, you can set goals and make choices to shape it positively. Past Unchangeable: Reflect on your past actions to learn, but don’t dwell. Use lessons from the past to inform better choices. Present Ephemeral: The present is fleeting; make the most of each moment by living in alignment with your values. Decision-Making Factors: Eastern vs. Western Influences: East: Often emphasizes communal goals, harmony, and adaptability to circumstances. West: Focuses on personal achievement, independence, and individual rights. GED 101 NOTES 25