Understanding the Self

Introduction to the Self

• The self is both simple and complex, requiring exploration throughout our lives.
• The course will cover various perspectives on understanding the self.
  • Psychological
  • Philosophical
  • Sociological
  • Anthropological
  • Cultural (Eastern and Western perspectives)
• Importance of self-care and self-management.
• The mantra of the subject: "Know thyself."

Goal of the Course

• Encourage curiosity and a drive to understand oneself.
• Explore the ideas of:
  • Who you are
  • Who you want to be
  • Who society wants you to be
• Importance of self-love as a foundation for loving others.

Philosophical Perspective of the Self

Overview of Philosophy

• Etymology: "Philosophy" means "love of wisdom."
• Philosophy seeks to understand ultimate causes and principles.
• Ancient Greek philosophers (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle) laid groundwork for understanding the self.

Socratic Philosophy

• Socrates: "Know thyself."
  • Believed self-knowledge is essential for a meaningful life.
• An examined life is worth living; the self is synonymous with the soul.
• The soul is immortal and seeks wisdom and perfection.
• Method of introspection for self-knowledge.
  • Socratic method involves questioning beliefs to uncover truths.

Platonic Philosophy

• Plato: Reason, spirit (passion), and appetite are three parts of the self.
  • Reason: Enables deep thinking and wise decisions.
  • Spirit (Passion): Includes emotions like love, anger, ambition.
  • Appetite: Biological needs (hunger, thirst, sexual desires).
• Genuine happiness comes from harmonizing these elements through reason.

Aristotelian Philosophy

• Aristotle: The body and soul are inseparable; the soul gives form to the body.
• Three kinds of soul:
  • Vegetative: Growth (plants).
  • Sentient: Emotions (animals).
  • Rational: Intellect (humans).
• Understanding our nature leads to a fulfilling life.

Medieval Philosophy

Saint Augustine

• Developed a unified perspective of body and soul.
• The soul governs and defines the self, created in the image of God.
• Self-knowledge comes from knowing God.
• The physical body is inferior to the immortal soul.
• Knowledge of God equals knowledge of self, leading to true happiness.

Conclusion

• The exploration of the self is a lifelong journey.
• Encouragement to ask questions and seek understanding in the next part of the course.