What is the purpose of self-examination in philosophy?

In philosophy the purpose of rational self-examination is to develop arguments that correct or support beliefs in ways that could be persuasive even to people with different backgrounds. 7. Though philosophy is defined as the pursuit of wisdom, it does not investigate what it means to ask questions in the first place.

What is the concept of self According to Socrates?

And contrary to the opinion of the masses, one’s true self, according to Socrates, is not to be identified with what we own, with our social status, our reputation, or even with our body. Instead, Socrates famously maintained that our true self is our soul.

What is examined life according to Socrates?

38a; my emphasis). On the common interpretation, then, the examined life is a life characterised by moral self-examination. On this rendering of it Socrates asserts that there is no greater good than moral self-examination and that a life which is not morally self-examined is so bad that it is not worth living.

What are the most important things according to Socrates?

Socrates strongly believed (unlike modern society) that the cultivation of virtue is the most important pursuit in life. He believed that virtue leads to a good and fulfilling life. The virtuous person is one who does well for society, and is in control of themselves and their desires.

What is gained from self examination Socrates?

Socrates called us to self examination and self knowledge. He even went as far as to claim that “The unexamined life is not worth living.” He taught me that we should examine our beliefs, assumptions, values, emotions, and attitudes on a regular basis, and relentlessly.

What are the three most pertinent questions of philosophy according to Socrates?

Socrates believed, to the contrary of many around him, that the most pertinent questions that philosophy had to deal with related to how people should live their lives, what kinds of actions were righteous, and how people should live together in communities and states.

What does it mean by Socrates when he said Know thy self and how can you relate it in your current situation as a student?

Socrates had a famous statement “Know thy self”, this statement meant for Socrates that we must choose a good life for ourselves through self-reflection and self-awareness. Knowing one’s self is a life mission and to never cease to “know thy self” was a way of life not just a statement.

What is self according to Merleau Ponty?

Maurice Merleau-Ponty believed the physical body to be an important part of what makes up the subjective self. This work asserts that self and perception are encompassed in a physical body. The physical body is part of self. The perceptions of the mind and the actions of the body are interconnected.

What is the importance of examined life?

By examining our lives, by looking into why we do things, we can begin to uncover our motivations. One can do the right thing for the wrong reasons, and be lauded.

What is the importance of living an examined life?

Ultimately, by living an examined life, we are giving ourselves an amazing gift. We receive a sense of freedom, clarity and thus, peace. Again Socrates reiterates: “We must examine and understand the universe that dwells within [our] own soul.”

How should you care for yourself according to Socrates?

According to Socrates, ‘care of self’ and to ‘know thyself’ are fundamental principles regarding the healthy relationship we have with ourselves, and others. In taking care of ourselves and knowing ourselves, we reduce the risk of harming others because we become more aware of our boundaries, means and potential.