The Soul

Question 1

Dualism

Answer 1

The view that there are two distinct parts to a person (the body and the soul). This is Plato’s view.

Question 2

Monism

Answer 2

The view that a person has two distinct parts but they are entwined together. The body and soul are united but once the body dies the soul also dies. This is Aristotle’s view.

Question 3

Materialism

Answer 3

The view that there is no distinct, invisible or separate part to the human body. We are just the substance of our bodies. There is no soul! This is the view of atheists.

Question 4

The soul is the ‘essence’ of the person

Answer 4

It is generally associated with the individuals personality, decision and free will and is often linked to the mind. (Plato)

Question 5

“The body is the prison of the soul”

Answer 5

The body is Plato’s understanding of the physical world. Prison represents how the soul is trapped in the body. The soul represents Plato’s World of Forms. (Plato)

Question 6

3 distinct parts of the soul

Answer 6

Reason - helps us work out right from wrong.
Emotion - gives us ability to love.
Appetite/desire - make us look after the physician needs of our bodies. (Plato)

Question 7

Hedonism

Answer 7

The pursuit of pleasure

Question 8

Why is the soul like a diamond?

Answer 8

It is one thing but can be viewed from many different angles. We function correctly when we have all three parts of the soul in balance. (Plato)

Question 9

The analogies to help us understand how the body and soul are united.

Answer 9

If the body were an axe, the soul will be its ability to chop.
If the body were an eye, the soul would be its ability to see.