Module-1.-Introduction-to-UTS-1

Introduction

• Understanding the Self is an outcome-based modular courseware authored by Jonathan V. Macayan, Jasmine Nadja J. Pinugu, and John Christopher D. Castillo.

Module Objectives

• Introduce the concepts, definitions, and processes of self-understanding.

• Explore scientific and philosophical explanations of the Self and Identity.

• Broad overview of factors contributing to one’s being and identity.

Unit 1: Social, Environmental, and Other Life Factors (S.E.L.F)

Purpose

• Introduces the journey of understanding the self, highlighting factors that contribute to the development of the Self.

Intended Learning Outcomes

1. Identify different factors contributing to one’s being.

2. Evaluate the impact of various factors on self-appraisal.

3. Synthesize influences of self-factors based on group assessment.

Learning Checkpoint: Diagnostics

• Statements to reflect on personal perspectives regarding self-determination and influence of family.

Issues on Understanding the Self

• Scholars have debated the nature, existence, and dimensionality of self, focusing on:

  • Self vs. Identity

  • Uni vs. Multi-dimensionalities

  • Nature vs. Nurture

Nature vs. Nurture

Biological Perspective (Nature)

• Traits are inherited, creating predispositions in self-expressions such as behavior and attitude.

• Genetics serves as a blueprint for the self, influencing characteristics passed through generations.

Social Perspective (Nurture)

• The self is significant through social environments and group interactions.

• Social sciences emphasize how institutions shape individual behavior and attitudes, stressing the importance of nurturing environments.

Understanding Self and Identity

Definitions

• Self: Relationship of an individual's being, knowledge, and values, integrating inner and outer experiences.

• Identity: Unique characteristics that distinguish an individual or group.

Observations

• The terms self and identity are often interchanged; many authors see little distinction.

Dimensionality of the Self

Issue 3: Uni vs. Multi-dimensionality

• Some argue the self can be solely defined by a single aspect, while others highlight multiple influences on identity development.

Physical Appearance

• An aspect of identity but often seen as superficial; critical for impressions and judgments.

Multidimensionality of the Self

• Includes several factors:

  • Society

  • Environment

  • Heredity

  • Volition

Social Factors

• Influences from family, peer groups, and other significant individuals shape identity.

Environmental Factors

• Involves physical and communal elements affecting personal development depending on location.

• Adapting to social and environmental expectations can redefine traits and skills.

Hereditary Factors

• Fixed biological traits passed through generations that define physical and cognitive characteristics.

Volition Factors

• Individual's inclination to define and construct a unique identity.

• Reflects ambition and personal uniqueness which can lead to trends or innovations.

Reflection on Influences

• Acknowledges interplay of nature, nurture, and multidimensional factors in identity formation.

• Encourages critical thinking regarding the contributions of these factors.

Module Overview

Unit 1: Social, Environmental, Other Life Factors

• Understanding the self through various life influences.

Unit 2: What Philosophy Says About the Self

• Exploration of philosophical frameworks from classical to contemporary views.

Unit 3: What Science Says About the Self

• Examination of how different scientific disciplines contribute to understanding the self.

Unit 2: What Philosophy Says About the Self

Intended Learning Outcomes

1. Define philosophical perspectives on the Self.

2. Trace the evolution of these concepts.

3. Analyze relevance to personal definitions of self.

Learning Checkpoint: Philosophical Positions

• Reflect on differing views among philosophers regarding the self, and their empirical versus rational approaches.

The Philosophy of the Self

Core Idea

• The Self connects to consciousness and rational choice, evolving from abstraction to scientific evidence.

Historical Perspectives

• Socrates: Advocated for understanding through self-knowledge, emphasizing the soul over physical existence.

• Plato: Introduced distinctions between ideal forms (ontos) and perceptions (phenomena).

• Aristotle: Merged ideal and physical existence concepts into essence and matter.

Empiricism vs. Rationalism

• Two lenses to view the self:

  • Empiricism: Knowledge from sensory experiences.

  • Rationalism: Innate knowledge and ideal understanding.

Overview of Philosophers Perspectives

• Socrates: Focus on good and ignorance.

• St. Augustine: Infusion of Platonic ideas into religious philosophy.

• Descartes: Mind-body dualism.

• Locke: Consciousness defines identity.

• Hume: Bundle theory of perceptions.

• Kant: Inner versus outer self.

Modern Philosophical Perspectives

• Empiricists in contemporary philosophy include Gilbert Ryle and Patricia Churchland, emphasizing biological and neurological dimensions.

Final Thoughts

• Reflect on how philosophical views of the self apply today, and motivate personal understanding and inquiry into chosen philosophical alignments.

Module Assessment

• Various exercises and readings to deepen understanding and encourage critical reflection on concepts of identity and the self.