Self-moving principle

Definition

The self-moving principle refers to the idea that certain entities, particularly living beings, possess the inherent ability to initiate movement or change without external forces acting upon them. This concept is vital in understanding the distinction between the soul and body, as it implies that the soul is a source of movement, influencing and directing the body's actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The self-moving principle suggests that the soul is not only responsible for life but also for purposeful movement and action.
2. Plato argued that true knowledge comes from understanding the nature of the soul as the source of motion, differentiating it from mere physical existence.
3. This principle emphasizes the distinction between active and passive states, with the soul actively directing movement while the body is a passive recipient of this direction.
4. In Plato's philosophy, the self-moving principle is essential to his argument for immortality, as it suggests that the soul can exist independently of the body.
5. Understanding this principle helps clarify the relationship between rational thought and bodily actions, indicating how mental decisions manifest physically.

Review Questions

• How does the self-moving principle enhance our understanding of the relationship between soul and body?
  • The self-moving principle deepens our understanding of how the soul influences bodily actions by asserting that it is an intrinsic source of movement. It highlights that while the body may undergo changes and experiences external influences, it is ultimately the soul that directs and initiates these movements. This connection illustrates the fundamental role of the soul in not just animating life but also guiding purposeful actions.
• Discuss how Plato’s view of the self-moving principle relates to his beliefs about knowledge and reality.
  • Plato's perspective on the self-moving principle ties closely to his theory of knowledge and reality. He believed that understanding motion and change is linked to grasping deeper truths about existence. The ability of the soul to move itself allows for rational thought and contemplation, which Plato saw as essential for acquiring true knowledge. Thus, he positioned the self-moving principle as foundational in distinguishing genuine understanding from mere sensory experience.
• Evaluate the implications of the self-moving principle for discussions about free will and determinism in philosophy.
  • Evaluating the self-moving principle raises significant questions about free will versus determinism. If we accept that the soul has inherent self-movement capabilities, it suggests that individuals possess autonomy in their actions, implying a level of free will. However, if external factors heavily influence or restrict this movement, it leads to deterministic interpretations where choices are limited. This tension invites deeper analysis of how much control we truly have over our actions and what role external circumstances play in our decisions.

Related terms

Soul: In philosophical terms, the soul is often regarded as the essence of a living being, responsible for life, thought, and movement.

Body: The body is the physical form of a living organism, which operates under the influence of the soul according to the self-moving principle.

Motion: Motion refers to the change in position or state of an object or being, which in philosophical discussions is often attributed to the influence of the soul.