The Philosophical Views on the Self: An Exploration Through History and Science

Human beings have long grappled with the concept of the self, seeking to understand the nature of their existence. Philosophers, scientists, and religious figures have offered countless theories on what the self truly is. This article delves into the most prominent views on the self, examining their validity, and what they mean for our understanding of human purpose.

Philosophical Views on the Self

Philosophers have posited various views on the nature of the self. Some argue that the self is an illusion, while others believe in the inherent rationality and relational nature of human beings. Below are some of the prominent philosophical views on the self, including 'Humans are just brains on a stick,' 'Humans are just rational creatures,' and the no-self theory.

Humans are Just Brains on a Stick

This view posits that the self is merely a byproduct of neural activity. Philosophers like Jerry Fodor and Daniel Dennett have espoused this understanding, suggesting that the brain is the fundamental unit of consciousness, with no inherent self beyond its biological functions.

Humans are Just Rational Creatures

Another perspective suggests that the self's primary function is rationality. This belief is rooted in the idea that the only purpose of the mind is to be rational, as argued by Descartes and other rationalists. However, this viewpoint overlooks the complex, multidimensional nature of human experience.

No-Self Theory

The no-self theory, also known as Anatman or Anattā, suggests that the self is an illusion produced by the mind. This concept is deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy and was taught by the Buddha approximately 2,500 years ago. It was also developed in Western philosophy by scholars like William James and George Herbert Mead in the 20th century.

Implications for Human Meaning and Purpose

The validity and credibility of these views can be debated. The no-self theory, in particular, offers a compelling perspective on the nature of the self. If the self is an illusion, it suggests that much of what we think constitutes our identity is in fact ephemeral. This leads to profound questions about human meaning and purpose.

Multidimensional Human Beings

Despite these philosophical theories, humans are complex, multi-dimensional creatures. From early childhood to adulthood, we continuously learn and evolve our understanding of what it means to be human. Psychologists, anthropologists, and philosophers offer diverse insights into the human person and purpose.

Characteristics of Human Beings

At the core of human beings, there are at least seven fundamental characteristics:

Beings with goals, dreams, and desires Relational creatures Imaginative and creating creatures Loving creatures Kind, caring, and compassionate creatures Envious, hateful, and prideful, depending on the individual

Expressing the Human Person

These characteristics suggest that human beings are not singular, monolithic entities, but rather rich, multifaceted individuals. Each person expresses different aspects of these characteristics in varying degrees, depending on their unique experiences and circumstances.

Learning About the Human Person

Understanding the human person requires a holistic approach, drawing from various disciplines:

Biology: Understanding the biological basis of human behavior and cognition. History: Examining how historical contexts shape individual and collective identities. Art, Literature, and Philosophy: Using creative and theoretical frameworks to explore the multifaceted nature of the self.

Conclusion

The no-self theory, as interpreted by the Buddha and further developed by Western philosophers, offers a profound understanding of the complexity and illusory nature of the self. While this perspective challenges traditional notions of identity, it also opens the door to a more nuanced understanding of human meaning and purpose. By embracing the multifaceted, multidimensional nature of human beings, we can better appreciate the richness of our existence.