Social Contract Theories: Hobbes, Locke, and Rawls
The social contract is a theory that addresses the circumstances of absolute freedom and absolute power without restraint. Each individual attempts to impose their will on others, reflecting the pessimistic view of “Homo homini lupus” (man is a wolf). This state of nature, characterized by absolute freedom, is a state of fear. To overcome this, the social contract emerges, based on two ideas: the state is a product of fear, and the state must be powerful to impose its will on its citizens.
Locke’
Read MoreUnderstanding Key Concepts: Slavery, Democracy, and Ethics
Understanding Key Concepts
Slavery: A person treated as property, subject to the owner’s will. Slavery was legally permitted in the West until 1865. While theoretically prohibited today, it unfortunately continues in practice.
Difference between a slave and someone exercising their profession: A slave is forced to labor without pay, while a professional chooses their work and receives wages.
Democracy and Governance
Democracy: A system of government where power resides in the people. Originating in
Read MoreOrtega y Gasset’s Philosophy: Perspective and Rationalism
Ortega y Gasset (1883-1955)
1. Significance of Philosophy
1.1 Description of Philosophy
Philosophy is vital and therefore a necessity. It is a flexible and dynamic activity. The philosopher struggles to understand everything and to capture the reality of the world. Philosophy is the knowledge of the universe.
1.2 Objectives of Philosophy
Philosophy proposes knowledge of everything, that is, the universe as a whole.
1.3 Method of Philosophy
The path that philosophy follows obeys three requirements:
- Imperative
Language, Thought, and Ethics: Key Concepts Explained
Origin and Development of Language
Human language is not innate but acquired on a genetic basis through a social process of learning.
Theories on Language Origin
Concern for tracing the origin of language is a constant in the history of philosophy and science.
- Mythical and Religious Theories: The emergence of language is attributed to a divine gift.
- Convention Theories: Language is the product of a social pact between humans.
- The Social Character of Language: Language is necessarily a product of social
Ortega y Gasset: Philosophy of Vital and Historical Reason
José Ortega y Gasset: Key Concepts in His Philosophy
José Ortega y Gasset was a prominent Spanish philosopher of the 20th century, known for integrating and expanding upon phenomenological and historicist ideas in Spain. Key aspects of his philosophy include:
The Circumstantial Self
Ortega adapted the phenomenological concept of intentionality, emphasizing that human beings cannot be separated from their surrounding context. Influenced by Heidegger’s notion of *being-in-the-world*, Ortega developed
Ethics, Morality, and Deontology: Key Concepts
Ethical Challenges to Established Society
Ethical challenges question established societal moral judgments relating to actions or decisions. These judgments often use terms such as “good,” “bad,” “right,” or “incorrect.” Ethics is a philosophical discipline that aims to evaluate these judgments, particularly when distinguishing between good and evil.
From an etymological point of view, “ethics” derives from “ethos,” which has a double meaning:
- “Residence, dwelling, or place where one lives.” Morality