Introduction To The Philosophy of The Human Person
Introduction To The Philosophy of The Human Person
Introduction To The Philosophy of The Human Person
1. Biological perspective
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How does Philosophy view the nature of
man?
2. Psychological perspective
-places emphasis on human behavior and
though processes in analyzing human
nature
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Man possesses mental faculties that enable him to possess awareness, a sense
of self, and the capacity to perceive and experience
psyche – conscious mind that governs awareness and unconscious mind
consists of latent or represses emotions, thoughts and desire
rationality – state of being reasonable, the ability to understand experiences in
order to solve problems or do tasks, and engage in decision making and
judgment
intelligence – ability to perceive information, store knowledge, and apply
it in various situations
introspection – ability to examine one’s own conscious thoughts, feelings,
mental state, and the capacity for self-reflection
How does Philosophy view the nature of
man?
3. Economic perspective
-focuses on man’s ability to engage in
productive activities in an effort to meet
his wants and needs
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This perspective considers man as a productive being; his primary role is
to produce and engage in labor
Economic forces are considered a greater influence on the actions of man
than society or culture
How does Philosophy view the nature of
man?
4. Theological perspective
-considers man as God’s creation
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Man is considered to have a special relationship with the Creator, being
created in His image and given immortal spirit
Man’s existence was brought about by the purposive creative act of God,
and his ultimate destiny in part of a divine plan
How do the various philosophical perspectives
define human nature? Which perspective conforms
to your ideas on the nature of man?
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How does Philosophy define the human
person?
✘ The self as emergent – this view holds that awareness of the self is gained
through interaction with the world and other human beings.
✘ The self as integrated and developing – this view holds that the self is
composed of varied elements that change overtime.
Identity - defined as the distinct personality of an individual.
Personal Identity is composed of a person’s unique physical
characteristics, mental attributes, experiences, memories, ideas, and views
Identity is said to persist through time, though certain aspects of it may
change.
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Personhood is the recognition of a human being as a distinct entity – a
person.
The person as an “autonomous being” (reasoned free choice)
The person as a “unified individual” (inherent capacity to function as a
person)
The person in relation to others (becomes a person through interactions
with other human beings)
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You as a
human
person
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Put your best picture at the center of the concept map
Put pictures around it that describes you and sets you apart from other
human beings. You can put as much pictures as you want
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