The Human Person as an Integrated System

Mankind became interested in anthropological investigations in antiquity following the period of natural philosophy. The ancient philosophers, apparently frustrated with so many proposals as to the origin of the universe, had decided to direct their interest towards humanity itself. Moreover, the ancient man was subjected to a clash with the external world. This situation naturally gave rise to some foundations as to what was certain and true. In other words, questions arose about the true nature of the human being and the system of values they should pursue. The modern era introduced dualism between mind and body, a fact that made the whole situation even more complicated. This text basically refers to John Henry Newman’s theory of personalism and seeks to show the human person as a being that relies on a very complicated, delicate, and idiosyncratic system. Persons are constantly called upon to consolidate the elements of the system and integrate it with their lives. Divided between notional and real assent, and on the way to certitude, the person unites the discarded elements of his and her life into one being. Open image in new window