Module 3 - The Human Person as an Embodied Spirit

Composition of a Human Person

MAN - derived from the from a Proto-Indo European root *man - (see Sanskrit/AvestanManu-, Slavic mǫž "man,
male"). It is the general term commonly used to refer to the entire human race. Other related terms, humanity,
mankind, and humankind.

HUMAN - refers to man as species – HOMO SAPIENS or MODERN HUMAN BEINGS.

PERSON - the personality of a human being so called “SELF”. Refers to a human being granted recognition of certain
rights, protection, responsibilities and dignity above all.

HUMAN PERSON - the totality of an individual, possessing awareness, self-determination and capacity to interact
withothers and with himself/herself.

Personhood - refers to the state of being a person.

HUMAN NATURE - defines as the nature of humans especially the fundamental characters and traits of humans. It
refers to the characteristics that distinguish humans from all other creatures. EXAMPLES: THINKING, FEELING AND
ACTING.

Self-awareness refers to the person having a clear perception of oneself, including his thoughts, emotions, identity,
and actions.

Self-determination refers to the capability of persons to make choices and decisions based on their own
preferences, monitor and regulate their actions, and be goal-oriental and self-directed.

Consequence is the result or effect of an action or condition. Philosophers believe that a person acts freely and with
due regard for the consequences of his actions.

Externality refers to the capability of a person to reach out and interact with others and the world.

Dignity refers to the innate right to be valued and respected. Philosophers consider all humans as having an
inherent worth or value. “You’re worthless!” is an insult since it attacks the very notion of a person having value or
worth.

Limitations of the Human Person

Human persons are naturally deficient beings. This means that we are not prepared with the best physical aspects
among all beings.

Human persons do not have the natural ability to fly.

Human persons cannot breathe underwater without the aid of a breathing device.

LIMITATIONS CAN LEAD TO POSSIBILITIES

Transcendence is the ability to change, be dynamic, and continually redefining one’s self which works with our
facticity to create change.

Facticity refers to the things in our life that are already given.
How do limitations lead to transcendence?
EXAMPLE: LIFE We are free to define who we are and who we are to be.
Spatial-temporal being. As temporal beings, our most obvious limitation is our finitude - our finite quality or
state. For example, Walang forever, pero meron talaga.

As spatial beings, we are limited by our bodies to be present in two or more places at the same time. We are
limited by space (spatial) and the time (temporal). Our spatial-temporal situation sets our preconditions of
understanding.

The Body as Intermediary

Intermediary means acting as a mediator (Merriam-Webster). Having a body may prevent us from revealing what
we really want to express.

Limitations and Possibilities for Transcendence

Transcendence originated from the words Trans, meaning “go beyond”, andscandare, meaning “climb”.

Here are some limitations and possibilities for transcendence:

- may not occur to everyone
- does not come at a specified period
- varies across all people
- may coincide with physical limitations of the body
- developing a positive outlook in life
- working towards reaching a goal
- learning from experience

● POSSIBILITIES FOR TRANSCENDENCE

It is also important to know that transcendence may be applied to present worries by living in the present. This
means that life is lived from moment to moment in a carefree and cheerful manner where concerns for stress are
reserved for thefuture, and regrets or guilt feelings are kept in the past.

● THE HUMAN BODY IN IMPOSING LIMITS AND POSSIBILITIES

From a biological and physical standpoint, it can be recognized that the human body, although it can perform many
functions, also has limitations. Limits in the environment, demographics, and society may also hinder a person from
reaching transcendence.
Here are some examples:
BODILY LIMITATIONS
- mental and emotional disorders (e.g. anxiety, intellectual disability)
- disabilities (e.g. amputated leg, deafness)
- disease and illnesses (e.g. hypertension, cough)
- failures and experiences (e.g. failing a subject)

SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS

- socioeconomic status
- location of neighborhood (e.g. armed, disorganized, or violent neighborhood)
- abusive relationships (e.g. emotional abuse) negative influences (e.g. drug use)
● OVERCOMING LIMITATIONS
Bodily limits can be tested by trying on new experiences and working on challenges with increasing levels of
difficulty. The human body, if given enough exposure to any situation, can attain a goal with efficiency. Social and
environmental limitations are more difficult to overcome than bodily limitations because they involve the influence of
other people and the external world. However, with a proper mindset, clearly defined goals, and motivation to rise
above challenges, one may successfully overcome his or her limitations.

● RECOGNIZE AND EVALUATE OWN LIMITATIONS AND POSSIBILITIES FOR TRANSCENDENCE

Even though you are still young, you are not prevented from further understanding yourself. Transcendence is even
more possible when you begin to understand that you can go beyond your limitations if you set your mind on your
goals.

SOME POINT TO REMEMBER WHEN GOING BEYOND YOUR LIMITS

- you are connected to the external or eternal world
- challenges are learning opportunities
- your goal is more important than your fears
- think outside the box
- recognize that everyone has fears

TIPS
The terms “transcendent” and transcendental” should not be used interchangeably. According to Immanuel Kant,
“transcendent” is a term used to refer to God, while “transcendental” refers to all other matter. While transcendence
may not occur for everyone, all people have the capacity to experience it regardless of any sociodemographic,
biological, or personal factors.