Overview
The lecture covers types of human societies, the impact of digital technology, digital citizenship, and philosophical perspectives on death and authenticity.
Types of Societies
- Tribal Society: Small, primitive groups led by a chief; self-sustaining and independent.
- Feudal Society: Dominated Europe from 9th-15th century; based on land ownership, decentralized power, and lord-vassal relationships.
- Industrial Society: Uses advanced technology for mass production to support large populations; focus on efficiency and standardization.
- Post-Industrial Society: Shifts from manufacturing goods to providing services; technical and professional jobs replace manual labor; emphasizes theoretical knowledge and innovation.
Digital Society & Citizenship
- Digital Society: Modern societies are shaped by widespread digital technologies, changing how people learn, work, and socialize.
- Information Society: Societies where information and communication technologies (ICT, like the internet) play a central role in economic and social life.
- Digital Citizenship: Being knowledgeable and responsible in using online platforms, actively participating in digital communities, and understanding rights and obligations online.
- Virtual interactions influence identity, relationships, and sense of self, often reducing commitment and making self-presentation more adaptable.
Human Person and Death
- Death is a universal and inevitable part of human existence.
- According to Heidegger, death is:
- Certain: All humans will eventually die.
- Indefinite: The timing of death is unknown.
- One’s Property: Each person experiences their own death; cannot be substituted.
- Non-Relational: Death must be faced alone, severing worldly ties.
- Not to be Outstripped: Death cannot be avoided or removed from life.
Death and Authenticity
- Authenticity: Living a true, meaningful life by making free choices, not merely following societal patterns.
- Awareness of death encourages living authentically and preparing for life’s end meaningfully.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Tribal Society — Small, primitive, self-sufficient social group led by a chief.
- Feudal Society — Medieval system based on land exchange for service, without centralized government.
- Industrial Society — Society centered on mass production and technology.
- Post-Industrial Society — Economy based on services, knowledge, and technology.
- Digital Society — Society shaped by digital technologies and online interactions.
- Digital Citizenship — Responsible, knowledgeable participation in digital environments.
- Authenticity — Living in accordance with one’s true values and choices.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Write a short essay reflecting on personal insights about death.
- Compose your own eulogy and submit it to your philosophy teacher.
- Prepare to read your essay and eulogy in the next class.