SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Introduction to the
Philosophy of the
Human Person
Quarter 1 – Module 1
Doing Philosophy

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 OVERVIEW
Hello dear learners! Welcome to this module on Introduction to the Philosophy of the
Human Person. This module will help you understand the meaning and process of doing
philosophy of the human person as an embodied being in the world and the environment as a
means towards a holistic understanding of life. It contains activities that will help you reflects on a
concrete experience in a philosophical way and demonstrates various ways of doing philosophy
and evaluate opinion. The module is self – instructional and allows you to learn in your own space,
at your own pace. So, relax and enjoy learning.
To the teacher:
This lesson assume that the teacher has already introduced to his/ her learners knowledge
about philosophy and its importance as discipline and a means of understanding life.
The primary goal of this module is to help learners engaged in some simple activities in
order to have necessary skills and understanding and reflects on a concrete experience in a
philosophical way.
To the Learners:
At the end of this module, you will be able to reflect on your daily experiences from a
holistic point of view and acquires critical and analytical thinking skills so that you can apply this
critical and analytical thinking skills to the affairs of your daily life and should be able to
demonstrate a capacity for a critical and analytical reflection from the perspective of a holistic and
profound vision of life.
In order to achieve the objectives of this module, it is necessary to have completed all the
module for you to fully understand the activities and discussions.
Specifically, this module consists of the following lessons:

 Lesson 1.1- The Difference Between Holistic Perspective from a Partial Point of View
 Lesson 1.2 – The Value of Doing Philosophy
 Lesson 1.3 – Doing a Philosophical Reflection

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 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

For the learners:

To be guided in achieving the objectives of this module, do the
following:
1. Read and follow instructions carefully.
2. Write all your ANSWERS in your PHILOSOPHY ACTIVITY
NOTEBOOK.
3. Answer the pretest before going through the lessons.
4. Take note and record points for clarification.
5. Compare your answers against the key to answers found at
the end of the module.
6. Do the activities and fully understand each lesson.
7. Answer the self-check to monitor what you learned in each
lesson.
8. Answer the posttest after you have gone over all the lessons.

For the teacher:

To facilitate and ensure the students’ learning from this module,
you are encouraged to do the following (you may edit this part):
1. Clearly communicate learning competencies and objectives
2. Motivate through applications and connections to real life.
3. Give applications of the theory
4. Discuss worked-out examples
5. Give time for hands-on unguided classroom work and
discovery
6. Use formative assessment to give feedback
7. Introduce extensions or generalizations of concepts
8. Engage in reflection questions
9. Encourage analysis through higher order thinking

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 Lesson
The Meaning and Method of
1 Doing Philosophy
The study of this subject is an initiation to the activity and process of philosophical
reflection as a search for a synoptic vision of life. At the end of the course, you should be able to
reflect on their daily experiences from a holistic point of view, acquire critical and analytical
thinking skills and should be able to apply this critical and analytical thinking skills to the affairs of
daily life and become truthful, environment-friendly and service-oriented. Actively committed to
the development of a more humane society and articulate their own philosophy of life.

What I Need to Know

Objectives: After going through this module, you are expected to understand the meaning and
process of doing philosophy, to:
1. Distinguish a holistic perspective from a partial point of view PPT11/12-Ia-1.1
2. Realize the value of doing philosophy in obtaining a broad perspective on life
PPT11/12-Ib-1.2
3. Do a philosophical reflection on a concrete situation from a holistic perspective
PPT11/12-Ib-1.3

Before heading on to our lesson, let us first check what you already know.

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 What I Know

INSTRUCTION: Write your answer in the space provided below.

What words come to mind when you hear the word Philosophy? Why do we need to study
Philosophy?
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Great job! Later we will see if your answers are correct by reading the rest of this module.

What’s In

The word philosophy comes from two Greek words: philos (love) and sophia
(wisdom). The ancient Greeks used this term to refer to “love of wisdom” and they soon applied it
to the study or discipline that uses human reason to investigate the ultimate causes, reasons, and
principles which govern all things.
Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental questions about existence,
knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
Philosophy in simple words is a way of thinking about the world, the universe, and
society. It works by asking very basic questions about the nature of human thought, the nature of
the universe, and the connections between them. The ideas in philosophy are often general and
abstract.
Philosophy is the study of humans and the world by thinking and asking questions. It
is a science and an art. Philosophy tries to answer important questions by coming up with answers
about real things and asking "why?"

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 What’s New

Do you know of some Greek Philosophers? Philosophers- are people who engage in philosophy.
Direction: Identify the following person in the picture below. Write your answer on the space
provided below.

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 What is It

The most notable ancient Greek philosophers are:

Pythagoras (570 BCE to 495 BCE)- A mathematician and scientist, he was credited with formulating
the Pythagorean theorem.
Heraclitus (535 BCe to 475 BCE)- He proposed that everything that exists is based on a higher
order or plan which he called logos.
Democritus (460 BCE to 370 BCE)- He devoted himself to the study of the causes of natural
phenomena.
Diogenes of Sinope (412 BCE to 323 BCE)- He was a known advocate of living a simple and
virtuous life.
Epicurus (341 BCE to 270 BCE)- He believed that philosophy could enable man to live a life of
happiness.
Socrates (470 BCE to 399 BCE)- He was considered the foremost philosophers of ancient times. He
was credited with formulating the Socratic method- means of examining a topic by devising a
series of questions that let the learner examine and analyze his knowledge and views regarding
the topic.
Plato (427 BCE to 347 BCE)- A student of Socrates, he wrote down his mentor’s teaching and
incorporated some of his own ideas into them. Plato’s most significant ideas included his Theory of
Forms, which proposes that everything that exist is based on an idea or template than can only be
perceived in the mind. Plato is also known for his dialectic- a method of inquiry where two
opposing ideas are discussed in an attempt to arrive at new knowledge. Plato’s lasting
contribution to learning was his founding of the Academy, an institution of higher learning.
Aristotle (384 BCE to 322 BCE)- He attended the Academy, and was the prominent student of
Plato. For him, all ideas and views are based on perception and our reality is based on what we
can sense and perceive. His studies in logic led to the formulation of a formal process of analyzing
reasoning which give rise to deductive reasoning-the process by which specific statements are
analysed to reach a conclusion or generalization.

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 Lesson
The Difference Between Holistic
1.1 Perspective from a Partial Point of View

We have already discussed the meaning of Philosophy from our previous lesson. Now, let us
proceed to another topic.

- Holistic thinking refers to a perspective that considers large-scale patterns in systems.

A holistic perspective requires an individual to have an open mindset and ability to get
the general sense or impression regarding a situation.

- Partial thinking focuses on specific aspects of a situation. The partial view is an

important component of analytical thinking, as an individual focuses on certain areas
or aspects of a problem in order to understand it.

What I Know

Direction: Give a brief answer to the following question. Write your answer on the space provided
below.

1. Give a situation where you are adopted a holistic view in looking at a problem or situation.
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2. How can having a holistic view help us become better individuals?

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 What’s In

The term "holistic thinking" refers to a big picture mentality in which a person recognizes
the interconnectedness of various elements that form larger systems, patterns and objects.
Thinking holistically is the opposite of analyzing something, which involves breaking down a larger
system into its details.
Holistic medicine is a prominent example of holistic thinking. A medical professional who
believes in holistic care considers the relationship between the mind, body and spirit. For example,
holistic doctors don't just provide patients with medications. Instead, they look at ways to improve
life balance and eradicate health problems from their root source, such as high stress or bad
nutrition.
In philosophy, point of view describes the perception of an event or phenomenon and how
exactly it is viewed. Point of view often is shaped by an individual's beliefs or experiences. Though
partial thinking is useful, philosophy utilizes holistic thinking in making sense of problems and
issues related to the human experience.
People tend to apply an analytical perspective when looking at problems or situations. A
holistic view gives rise to a more appreciative perspective about life, as we are able to look at life
in its totality.

TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF THINKING

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 Lesson
The Value of Doing Philosophy in
1.2 Obtaining a Broad Perspective on Life
Why do we philosophize? We all have the potential to philosophize since we have the tendency to
wonder and doubt.
A philosopher is a good communicator who can clearly and adequately present his or her ideas.
Doing philosophy can be applied in day-to-day activities and life perspectives. Because it involves
an evaluative process, doing philosophy allows a person to make better decisions and act
accordingly to situations with the help of various philosophical skills. On life perspectives,
philosophy enables reflective thinking which greatly influences a person’s view of life, challenges,
and relationships.
In doing philosophy, a holistic perspective on the subject is always required. Failure to do so or
only using a partial point of view may lead to illogical or incorrect conclusions.

What I Know

Direction: Give a brief answer to the following question. Write your answer in space provided
below.
1. How can a person benefit from philosophizing?
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2. What are the reasons that compel a person to engage in philosophical thinking?
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 What’s In

Plato traced man’s need to philosophize to his sense of wonder. Whenever we are confronted
with an experience, we always wonder how it came about.
French philosopher Rene Descartes traced the need to philosophize to doubt. In life, we will be
faced with several ideas and arguments which present themselves as “truths”. A critical and
questioning perspective is necessary to determine if indeed these ideas or views are correct or
true.
Swiss-German philosopher Karl Jaspers saw the need to philosophize because of experience. These
experiences limit situation, philosophy provides us a means to understand adverse or challenging
conditions, and to rise above them and gain new knowledge and perspective.
The need to philosophize is driven by the love for wisdom. To love wisdom is to have an insatiable
desire for truth.
Philosophy itself is a distinct area of knowledge with its own goals, concerns, and ways of doing
things.

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 What’s New

Direction: Based on the picture below. Identify the branches of Philosophy. Write your answer on
the space provided.

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 What is It

The following are the branches of philosophy that deals with a particular aspect of life or
phenomena.

Aesthetics is the branch of Philosophy which deals with beauty and what makes things “beautiful”.
Logic is branch of philosophy which deals with correct reasoning.
Epistemology discusses the nature of knowledge and knowing.
Ethics is the branch which deals with moral questions and dilemmas.
Political Philosophy studies governments and deals with questions of justice, power and the rights
and obligations of citizens.
Metaphysics is a branch of philosophy which deals with questions regarding reality and existence.
Philosophy of the Human Person-is an area in philosophy that understand the human person
from a philosophical perspective.

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 Lesson
Doing a Philosophical Reflection on a
1.3 Situation from Holistic Perspective

- Reflection requires a person to be willing to examine one’s thoughts, feelings, and

action and to learn more about one’s life and experiences.
- Human self-reflection is the capacity of humans to exercise introspection and to
attempt to learn more about their fundamental nature and essence.
- Philosophy has an important place in our daily lives. Engaging in philosophical
reflection leads to the development of beneficial skills that individuals can apply in
everyday situations.

What I Know

Direction: Give a brief answer to the following question. Write your answer on the space provided
below.
1. Have you ever had an experience where reflecting on your actions benefitted you?
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2. Has reflection ever helped you avoid making a bad decision?

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 What’s In

Reflection is vital in ensuring that our actions and decisions are well thought out and are done
with due regard for their implications and consequences on ourselves, others, and our
surroundings.
When we reflect, we can judge whether our actions or decisions are reasonable or not. Doing
Philosophy enables a person to engage in critical analysis and interpretation of concepts,
definitions, arguments, and problems.
Doing Philosophy also improves problem-solving and decision making. The ability to analyze a
problem or dilemma, identify the significant aspects, and come up with alternative solutions is an
important skill learned through philosophy.
In the process of doing philosophy, it is critical to have a holistic point of view-the perception of
looking at all aspects of a situation first before making a conclusion.
Wisdom as it refers to a person’s ability to apply knowledge to daily life particularly in making
sound choices and judgment is the intended product of philosophizing.
Finally, knowledge of Philosophy can contribute to self-development.

Examples of activities that emanated from a deliberate reflection

- Learning from your previous mistakes and not repeating them
again
- Evaluating and knowing the best choice from a set of options
- Gaining a holistic point of view first before making any
conclusion

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 What’s New

Direction: Complete the table below. Write your answer on the space provided.

ACTIONS WHAT MUST BE DONE BEFORE THE

ACTION?
1. Buying a new gadget

2. Choosing friends

3. Eating food

4. Deciding where to study in College

5. Joining an organization in school

6. Helping a stranger

7. Going out with friends

8. Posting your opinion or feelings in the social

media
9. Going out with the opposite sex

10. Confronting a person who verbally hurt

you

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 What is It

Based on your answers in Table 1, what must before making actions? Do you consider it helpful if
you do this before making actions? Why or why not?
Simple action seems to take a whole new meaning when one engages in reflection. Like buying a
new gadget, think of the questions you asked yourself as you consider buying the said item.
You may start with simple questions, but since we are in reflective and philosophizing mood, we
try and think of deeper questions and reflect on the situation.

What’s More

Direction: TRUE OR FALSE. Write TRUE if the statement is correct otherwise choose FALSE. Write
your answer on the space provided.
_____1. Plato traced man’s need to philosophize to his sense of wonder.
_____2. The need to philosophize is driven by the love for wisdom.
_____3. This is an area in philosophy that understand the human person from a philosophical
perspective is holistic thinking.
_____4. Swiss-German philosopher Karl Jaspers saw the need to philosophize because of doubt.
_____5. Aesthetics is branch of philosophy which deals with beauty.
_____6. Ethics is a branch of philosophy which deals with correct reasoning.
_____7. Logic is a branch of philosophy which discusses the nature of knowledge and knowing.
_____8. Philosophy of the Human Person is a branch of philosophy which deals with moral
questions and dilemmas.
_____9. Metaphysics is branch of philosophy which deals with questions regarding reality and
existence.

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_____10.Political Philosophy is branch of philosophy which studies governments and deals with
questions of justice, power and the rights and obligations of citizens.

What I Have Learned

Direction: Fill in the blanks. Write your answer on the space provided.

Experience Knowledge Greek

Holistic Thinking Partial Thinking Lover of Wisdom

 Philosophy – comes from two ____________________word philos (love) and sophias

(wisdom) is the study of general and fundamental questions about existence, knowledge,
values, reason, mind, and language.

 Philosophers – or ______________________ people who are engage in philosophy.

 A man needs to philosophize because of his sense of wonder, doubt and

______________________.

 Philosophy does not limit itself to its own field as it makes sense of information gathered
from various fields of _________________________ (e.g., science, psychology, economics,
politics, etc.,)

 Philosophy of the Human Person is an area in philosophy that understand the human person
from a philosophical perspective which involves holistic thinking and
_______________________.

 Philosophical reflection is important in our daily lives as it ensures that our actions and
decisions are well thought by using a deeper, holistic perspective.

 In doing philosophy, critical, logical, and analytical thinking, observation, and communicative
skills were involved.

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 What I Can Do

Direction: Write your answer on the space provided below.

1. List down instances in your life that you were able to engage in philosophy.
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2. How did philosophy help you address your situation?

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 Assessment

After our lesson, let us now check what you have learned.
Direction: encircle the letter of the correct answer.
1. The word Philos is a Greek word means_________.
a. Love b. Wisdom c. Philosopher d. Philosophy
2. Sophia is a Greek word for ___________.
a. Love b. Wisdom c. Philosopher d. Philosophy
3. The people who engages in philosophy are called________.
a. Love b. wisdom c. Philosophy d. Philosopher
4. He was considered the foremost philosophers of ancient times. He was credited with
formulating the Socratic method___________.
a. Plato b. Aristotle c. Socrates d. Democritus
5. A student of Socrates, he wrote down his mentor’s teaching and incorporated some of his own
ideas into them included his Theory of Forms________.
a. Plato b. Aristotle c. Socrates d. Democritus
6. It refers to a perspective that considers large-scale patterns in systems______.
a. Doubt b. Academy c. Holistic Thinking d. Partial Thinking
7. It focuses on specific aspects of a situation, as an individual focuses on certain areas or aspects
of a problem in order to understand it.
a. Doubt b. Academy c. Holistic Thinking d. Partial Thinking
8. It is the process by which specific statements are analysed to reach a conclusion or
generalization.
a. Academy b. Deductive reasoning c. Holistic d. Partial
9. It requires a person to be willing to examine one’s thoughts, feelings, and action and to learn
more about one’s life and experiences.
a. Reflection b. Observation c. Knowledge d. Doubts
10. The Greek term for philosophy, philosophia, means ___.
a. Holistic Thinking b. Partial Thinking c. Love of wisdom d. Knowledge

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 Congratulations!
You have completed your journey in this module. You did a great job!

Answer
It’s now timeKey
to go on to the next adventure…Good luck!

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REFERENCES
Roberto D. Abella, M.Div., D.Min. (2016). Introduction to the Philosophy of the Human Person.
Philosophy meaning. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy)
Holistic thinking. https://www.reference.com/world-view/holistic-thinking-71825abaad1c20ca
Partial point of view. https://study.com/academy/answer/what-is-partial-point-of-view.html
Self-reflection. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-reflection
The difference between holistic and partial thinking.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yTVInz1eOg
https://www.slideshare.net/arielgilbuena7/intro-to-the-philosophy-of-the-human-personchapter-
1-the-process-of-doing-philosophy https://www.reference.com/world-view/holistic-thinking-
71825abaad1c20ca https://study.com/academy/answer/what-is-partial-point-of-view.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBTnhWEWf38 https://www.google.com/search?
q=what+is+philosophy&oq=what+is+philo&aqs=chrome.1.6
9i57j0l7.8372j0j8&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philosophy
https://study.com/academy/lesson/big-picture-vs-detail-oriented-thinking.html
https://thefearlesshustle.com/5-ways-to-stay-positive-through-life/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aristotle https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socrates
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epicurus https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plato
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Browse/prek-12-subject-area/test-preparation/Typeof-
Resource/Rubrics

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