Understanding the Self - Philosophical Perspective of the Self

Summary

This video introduces the philosophical perspectives of the self, exploring how philosophy helps us understand personal identity. The discussion is divided into four parts: an activity on self-reflection, a detailed explanation of philosophical concepts, the role of philosophy in understanding the self, and an assessment. The video also covers key philosophers like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and others, examining their views on self-knowledge, the relationship between the body and soul, and consciousness. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own definitions of the self and apply philosophical theories to their understanding.

Takeaways

• 📚 The discussion focuses on the philosophical perspectives of the self, divided into four parts: activity, philosophy, philosophy and the self, and application/assessment.
• 🎯 Learning outcomes include explaining the role of philosophy in understanding the self, differentiating various concepts of the self, and developing a personal philosophy of the self.
• ❓ An activity asks students to reflect on six questions related to the self, including how they would characterize themselves and what happens to the self after death.
• 🧐 Philosophy is introduced as a discipline that seeks answers to fundamental questions about existence, morality, and the good life, involving critical thinking and argumentation.
• 🧠 Socrates introduced the concept of dualism, where the body is imperfect and impermanent, while the soul is perfect and permanent, aiming for wisdom and self-knowledge.
• 💭 Plato expanded on Socrates’ ideas, emphasizing the mind and soul as the essence of a person, and the importance of achieving wisdom and harmony within the self.
• 🫂 Aristotle, in contrast, believed that the body and soul are one entity and that the soul dies with the body, focusing on the flourishing life and the rational soul.
• ✝️ St. Augustine blended Christian theology with Plato’s philosophy, suggesting that self-knowledge is tied to knowing God, and man is incomplete without the soul.
• 🤔 Descartes is famous for 'I think, therefore I am,' emphasizing the separation of mind (thinking) and body (extension), which proves the existence of the self.
• 📅 The deadline for the activity and assessment is September 18, and students are tasked with defining the self and summarizing philosophical views of key philosophers.

Q & A

What are the four parts of the discussion in the video?

The four parts of the discussion are: the activity, a discussion of philosophy, philosophy and the self, and the application and assessment.

What are students expected to learn from this discussion?

Students are expected to explain the role of philosophy in understanding the self, discuss different concepts of the self from a philosophical perspective, differentiate the various concepts of the self, identify their similarities, and develop their own philosophy of the self.

What is the main activity the students are asked to reflect on?

Students are asked to reflect on six questions regarding their own self, including how they characterize themselves, what makes them unique, how their self is transformed, how it is connected to their body, how it relates to others, and what will happen to their self after they die.

How is philosophy defined in the video?

Philosophy is defined as the pursuit of answers to serious questions about ourselves and the world, such as what is morally right or wrong, what constitutes a good life, and whether God exists. It involves questioning existing knowledge and institutions to get closer to the truth.

Who was the first person to use the term 'philosophy,' and what does it mean?

Pythagoras was the first person to use the term 'philosophy,' which comes from the Greek words 'philo' (love) and 'sophia' (wisdom), meaning the love of wisdom.

What was Socrates' belief about the self?

Socrates believed in the dualism of the self, composed of two parts: the body and the soul. The body is imperfect and temporary, while the soul is perfect and eternal. He emphasized that self-knowledge is essential for a happy and meaningful life.

How did Plato's view of the self differ from Socrates'?

Plato believed the self involved both the mind and the soul, with the soul striving for wisdom and perfection. He divided the soul into three parts: the rational soul (intellect), the spirited soul (emotions), and the appetitive soul (basic needs).

How did Aristotle's view of the self differ from Plato’s?

Aristotle believed that the body and soul are one and cannot exist separately. The soul is the essence of the self, responsible for a person's growth, emotions, and rational thought. He introduced three types of souls: vegetative, sensitive, and rational.

What was Saint Augustine's perspective on the self?

Saint Augustine combined Plato’s philosophy with Christian beliefs, stating that the soul is united with the body to make a person whole. He believed humans are made in the image of God and that self-knowledge comes through knowing God.

What is the deadline for students to submit their application and assessment?

The deadline for the activity, application, and assessment is September 18, Friday.