SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Introduction to the
Philosophy of the
Human Person
Quarter 1- Module 1
The Meaning and Method of Doing
Philosophy

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

1
 SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Introduction to the
Philosophy of the Human
Person
Quarter 1- Module 1
The Meaning and Method of Doing
Philosophy

This instructional material is collaboratively developed and reviewed by Teacher,

School Head, Publicl District Supervisor, and Education Program Supervisors of the
Department of Education- Misamis Oriental Division. We encourage teachers and
other education stakeholders to email their feedback, comments and
recommendations to the Department of Education-Misamis Oriental at

We value your feedback and recommendations.

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

2
 Lesson The Meaning and Method

1 of 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.

3
 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?

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
4
science and an art. Philosophy tries to answer important questions by coming up with answers
about real things and asking "why?"

4
 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.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki

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.

5
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
5
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.

Lesson The Difference Between

1.1 Holistic 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
6
 situation.

2. How can having a holistic view help us become better individuals.

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.

7
 TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF THINK

Study.com

Lesson The Value of Doing

Philosophy in Obtaining a
1.2 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?

8
 2. What are the reasons that compel a person to engage in philosophical thinking?

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.

9
 https://thefearlesshustle.com/

WHAT’S NEW?

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

PHILOSOPHY

10
 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.

Lesson Doing a Philosophical

1.3 Reflection on a Situation
from Holistic Perspective
12
 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.

11
 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?

2. Has reflection ever helped you avoid making a bad decision?

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

12
 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

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.
13
 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.
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.

WHAT I CAN DO
14
 Direction: Write your answer on the space provided below.

1. List down instances in your life that you were able to engage in philosophy.

2. How did philosophy help you address your situation?

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

15
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 d. Partial Thinking c. Love of wisdom d. Knowledge

Congratulations!
You have completed your journey in this module. You did a great job!
It’s now time to go on to the next adventure…Good luck!

16
17