Human Perfection Research Articles

The Author Responds: Spinoza and Human Perfection

The Author Responds: Spinoza and Human Perfection

Spinoza on blessedness for human beings: Possible for a few, but not for the whole human species

Steven Nadler has written an insightful paper on ‘Spinoza and Maimonides on Human Perfection and the Love of God’, in which he analyses the differences and similarities between Spinoza and Maimonides related to the suggested themes, and he argues that becoming blessed is possible. Nadler does not, however, say much about whether blessedness is possible for a few or the whole human species. I argue, though, that pursuing blessedness is hard work and that only a few, if any, seem to engage or are being enabled to engage in the pursuit of becoming blessed, that is, in striving for the highest possible good, namely, the intellectual love of God or Nature. I begin by showing what humans’ typical potentials and limitations are with respect to achieving perfection, according to Spinoza. I also show that that we cannot achieve perfection: at least not in the same sense as God or Nature. In the second part I show what we as human beings have to do in order to engage ourselves in the pursuit of becoming blessed. In the final part I discuss some current conditions for education which does not in-themselves make it possible to become blessed in education, and put forward some ideas of what can be done in education in order for those concerned to strive to become blessed.

A Comparative Exploration of Human Potential and Self-Transcendence in Iqbal and Nietzsche

This study examines the essential conceptual distinctions between Nietzsche's notion of the Superman and Iqbal's conception of the Perfect Man, two divergent goals of human potential. Nietzsche's Superman, grounded on power, autonomy, and the repudiation of conventional morality, aspires to grandeur via individual supremacy and the transcendence of social norms. Conversely, Iqbal’s Perfect Man is a fusion of heavenly grandeur and beauty, attaining excellence via spiritual self-actualization, ethical integrity, and altruistic service to mankind. Nietzsche’s Superman dismisses metaphysical ideas and flourishes via human will, but Iqbal’s Perfect Man derives power from religion, love, and justice. This contrast highlights a profound philosophical divergence: Nietzsche’s perspective centers on existential power, while Iqbal’s prioritizes spiritual development and collective advancement. The thesis ultimately emphasizes Iqbal’s Perfect Man as a paradigm for harmonious human growth, surpassing Nietzsche’s individualistic ideal.

Spinoza and Maimonides on human perfection and the love of God

Part Five of Spinoza’s Ethics includes a notoriously challenging set of propositions about human perfection. Part of the difficulty in interpreting these elements of the work arises from neglecting important philosophical background for the relevant propositions, namely, medieval Jewish rationalism and Maimonides in particular. Spinoza was well acquainted with Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexted as well as his halakhic or legal writings. For both Spinoza and Maimonides (who, in turn, is a good Aristotelian on this matter), human perfection is essentially a cognitive matter, albeit one with an affective component, whereby the highest good for a human being consists in the superb and joyful intellectual condition that is the knowledge and love of God. My goal in this essay, then, is to see whether any light can be thrown on Spinoza’s views on this topic by considering them through a Maimonidean lens.

The Greatest Name of God: ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib as a cosmic image in Rajab al-Bursī's Mashāriq al-anwār

Abstract ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib (d. 40/661)—a revered figure in Islamic history as both the first Shiʿi imam and the fourth caliph—serves as a significant image of sacral power in the Persianate world and beyond. ʿAlī's authority underwent a profound reimagining in the early modern era as he emerged as a captivating imperial emblem from the Timurid renaissance to the Safavid revolution, rivalling other prominent figures of political authority such as Chinggis Khan (d. 1227), and becoming a symbol of human perfection for both Sunni and Shiʿi intellectuals alike. ʿAlī transcended his role as a Shiʿi imam to assume the status of a cosmic figure, gradually becoming an ideal symbol for imperial branding. However, there is little scholarly knowledge and appreciation of his changing role in this period. This article examines how al-Ḥāfiẓ Rajab al-Bursī's (d. circa 814/1411) Mashāriq al-anwār, which has remained highly popular throughout the Persianate and Shiʿi world, contributed to the reshaping of ʿAlī's image, portraying him as the quintessential archetype of sacral power and unmatched authoritative feats.

Inovasi Model Pembelajaran Pai Menggunakan Media Audio Visual dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa di Smpn 1 Purwosari

Acquiring knowledge Islamic Religious Education is a methodical endeavor to develop into a strong person capable of putting Islamic teachings into practice in daily life in order to reach human perfection. The goal of the learning process is to help each student reach their full potential and become as capable as possible. In the classroom, an instructor's or teacher's function is identical to that of a mentor and motivator who supports students' growth. Determining learning outcomes and student engagement when utilizing manual and audio-visual media is the aim of this study. Here, qualitative research methodologies are employed by the researchers, and the goal of the learning process is to maximize each student's potential. In a classroom setting, an instructor or teacher plays the same function as a mentor and motivator who

Sufism and Mysticism: Short Biography of Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jeelani (R.A)

Sufism is a mystic body of religious practice found in Islam which is characterized by a focus on Islamic purification, spirituality, ritualism, asceticism and esotericism. Sufism is a path of spiritual advancements cum expansion of consciousness leading to awareness of self in the universe. The practice of Sufism leads to the development of innate spiritual and initiative abilities. Ancient Kashmir has been a practical place of stay and meditation for the saints, Sufis, Rishis and other devoted worshipers of Allah. The philosophy spread along the valley after the arrival of Sufis from central Asia. As necessitated by love's jealousy, the Sufi is taken away from all except the Truth. One of the most important doctrines of Sufism is the concept of the "Perfect Man" al-Insan al- Kamil. This doctrine states that there will always exist upon the earth a "Qutb" - a man who is the perfect channel of grace from God to man and in a state of wilaya sanctity, being under the protection of God. This paper is an attempt to understand the Short Biography of Sufi saint, Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jeelani (R.A)

The Contribution of Ibn Arabi’s Sufism-Philosophical Thought to The Concept of Perfect Human Being who Rationally Believes

Ibn Arabi was one of the great Islamic thinkers who lived between 1165-1240 AD. He was known as one of the highest Sufi master (mystic) in human spiritual achievement with title Sheikh al-Akbar (Doctor Maximus or The Great Master). Using the library research, this article aims to explore and find the contribution of Ibn Arabi’s Sufism-philosophical thought and find its relevance to realize the perfect human being, equipped with rational faith. The results show that Ibn Arabi succeeded in “marrying” philosophy with Islamic teachings so that he can be categorized as a Sufi-philosopher and his thought has a Sufism-philosophical character. This style of thought is very relevant to help modern people who have a tendency to separate faith from ratio. For Ibn Arabi, human perfection lies in being together with God. However, this togetherness with God must be understood and lived rationally. In other words, a perfect human being is one who believes in God rationally.

ASPERGER'S SYNDROME – SOCIO-HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF AUTISM AND ITS PEDAGOGICAL CONSEQUENCES. RESEARCH AND SOCIAL PRACTICE AND THE RIGHT TO LIFE

ABSTRACT: Aim: The aim of the publication is to attempt to transpose the medical dimensions of the problem into pedagogy, with the contemporary idea of social and educational inclusion. It is an attempt to point out the consequences of scientific research, which is often in conflict with fundamental moral rights, including the right to life. Methods: The article uses an extensive literature query and an analytical-synthetic method. It leads to an interdisciplinary exploration of the topic, taking into account its pedagogical character. Results: The theoretical analysis of the topic, socio-historical, medical and pedagogical threads show the multidimensionality of autism and disability - in the broad sense of the word - as a significant problem in contemporary education. Conclusion: The intention of the undertaken analyses is to indicate the significance of ethics and moral laws in education and social practice - in its various dimensions. Civilization must move toward the defense of life, not death, for the sake of human perfection. Originality: The article presents the socio-historical background of autism and Hans Asperger's research. It indicates the contemporary implications of medical and ideological assumptions in pedagogy and work with people with disabilities in the context of the value of life and the need to defend it. Keywords: Asperger, Asperger's syndrome, autism, therapeutic pedagogy, education, moral law, ideology, sociocultural context, ethics in education, eugenics

A Nuanced Outlook of Human Perfection in Andrew Niccol's Movie, Gattaca

Andrew Niccol's 1997 movie Gattaca pictures a world where parents can engineer genetically strong kids and those who come without prior engineering are seriously at disadvantage. While freedom of perfection creates a borderless autonomy for any parent to choose their child's destiny, equally it tames those who were not engineered by science but by fate. The movie therefore poses an important question regarding the definition of perfection in a society where genetics shapes much of an individual’s identity. This research employs Rene Descartes’ concept of mind-body dichotomy to justify the stance of Vincent’s eventual success to get into Gattaca despite being an invalid in a society where genetically engineered children are the highlight. It doesn’t however deal not so much with the age long debate about technology versus human as it does about subtle humane virtues, will power, desirability and ambitions that stands out despite the border of genetic engineering that tries to subdue it.

Navigating Contemporary Ethical Challenges: Murtadha Muthahhari’s Philosophical Insights for Modern Muslims

This article explores the ethical framework proposed by Murtadha Muthahhari in addressing the moral dilemmas encountered by contemporary Muslims. Motivated by the multifaceted crisis affecting modern Muslim societies, this research seeks to apply Muthahhari’s philosophical insights to contemporary ethical issues. Central to this investigation is Muthahhari’s conceptualization of Ma'rifah Allah (Knowledge of God) and Worship as foundational elements in his ethical philosophy. The study utilizes primary sources, including Muthahhari’s seminal works such as Philosophy of Morals, Perfect Man, and Islamic Moral Philosophy, alongside secondary sources encompassing related scholarly literature. Employing a methodological approach that integrates literature review, inductive reasoning, critical analysis, and heuristic methods, the research elucidates how Muthahhari’s emphasis on aligning human actions with divine commands can lead to a transformative ethical paradigm. The findings suggest that Muthahhari’s philosophy provides a robust framework for resolving the ethical challenges faced by contemporary Muslims, underscoring the transformative potential of grounding ethical conduct in the pursuit of divine pleasure.

МОДЕЛЬ СОВЕРШЕННОГО ЧЕЛОВЕКА В КОНТЕКСТЕ КЛАССИЧЕСКОГО СУФИЗМА НА ПРИМЕРЕ СУФИЙСКИХ ВЗГЛЯДОВ АВИЦЕНЫ

the author examines the Conception of the perfect man in the philosophy of Ibn Sina, highlighting it as an important aspect in both mystical and philosophical teachings. The model of the ideal man, created by Ibn Sina's representation, is intellectual harmony, moderation and moral beauty, reflecting the high ideals of cognition and consciousness.

Learning of Islamic Religious Education Through Al-Ishlah Wa At-Tagyir Method in Realizing Student's Goodness

Salih Sulthan proposes Al-Ishlah Wa Tagyir Method as a solution for learning Islamic Religious Education, which focuses on transformational change as studied in Surah Al-Kahf. The research methodology is qualitative, employing literature study as the approach. The study's findings indicate that the Al-Ishlah Wa Tagyir method, implemented in Islamic religious education, aims to optimize students' inherent potential through intellectual and spiritual processes grounded in Islamic teachings from the Al-Quran and As-Sunnah. The goal is to achieve happiness in this life and the afterlife. The method is an ongoing process of instilling religious values in education between educators and students, with morality as the ultimate objective. The main characteristics of the method include instilling Islamic values in the soul, taste, and thought, as well as promoting harmony and balance. These characteristics have become a way of life, with the goal of achieving human perfection, creating a complete human being with three dimensions, and realizing human functions as servants, caliphs of Allah, heirs of the prophets, and providing adequate provisions to perform these functions.

Hadits-Hadits Tentang Pendidikan

Is very important in shaping the nature and character of man to be perfect man is education. Through education, be it family, school, or neighborhood, people can open mind for instance that there is nothing in the universe, there are a lot of science. From the start that there is in humanity itself up space that is difficult to reach by the senses and in the end thinking that the universe is the creator and owner.amongthe rule was one of a child's education should be noted that education in childhood that will affect the character of the child as an adult later. Education of children is not only done when they are still small. But, carried in the womb until he grew up. Hadith as part of the essential teachings of islam have so many precious cargo that can be used as a foothold in the education of children of this discourse. Therefore, the authors will describe some of the hadith related to the education of children.The purpose of this study was to examine and analyze verses relating to the concept of child education in the Qur'an and its implementation in the family. The research method used in this research is qualitative research through literature review using a maudhui interpretation approach. This study concludes that there are six terms for children in the Qur'an, including ghulam, walad, dzurriyah, ibn, tifl, and shabiy, each of which has a correlation with the concept of children's education. The concept of child education states that in educating children, parents are the first milestone in educating children, in this case the family plays an important role in the education process. In addition, in the concept of educating children there are also methods that must be considered. Among these methods are: 1) the exemplary method, 2) Habituation Method, 3) The method of advice, and 4) monitoring methods. This study recommends that more in-depth research and analysis be carried out with more applicable theories

SEXISM IN FLANNERY O'CONNOR'S “WISE BLOOD”

This research paper aims to explore the theme of sexism, particularly within Flannery O'Connor's novel “Wise Blood”. Historically, societies have upheld a patriarchal structure where men were considered the standard while women were viewed as exceptions. For instance, Aristotle famously asserted that women were inferior to men but superior to slaves, elevating men as the epitome of human perfection. Despite progress over time, deep-seated prejudices against women have persisted, manifesting in various forms such as sexual harassment and domestic violence. Consequently, sexism permeates multiple aspects of life, not confined to any single domain. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in women's educational attainment, with more females attending college and graduating with degrees in traditionally male-dominated fields like the sciences. However, despite these advancements, disparities persist, with fewer women pursuing careers in areas such as science and academia. Numerous factors contribute to perpetuating sexism, including societal expectations surrounding motherhood and family commitments, early socialization patterns that shape interactions between genders, institutional barriers within certain fields, and even conjectures rooted in biological differences. This paper endeavors to examine these multifaceted aspects of sexism in both literature and contemporary society.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0787/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Exploring the Translation Patterns of “Ren”: Insights into Translation Practice from a Cross-Cultural Perspective

The concept of rén is a central aspect of traditional Chinese political thought, with various translations in English literature. This study examines the translations of rén in Lectures on Traditional China’s Political Thoughts and analyzes the statistics and trends among these translations. The findings reveal a lack of uniformity in the translations of rén, indicating that different translators interpret the concept in various ways. Furthermore, the parts of speech used in the translations differ, reflecting the unique perspectives of local and overseas scholars. Through etymological interpretations, this study explores the meanings behind typical English translations of rén such as virtue, benevolent, morality, humanity, good, kind, love, compassion, authoritative, man of skill, perfect man, and gentleness. These interpretations shed light on the diverse understanding of rén in traditional Chinese political thought. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the translations and interpretations of rén, highlighting the complexity and richness of this fundamental concept in Chinese philosophy.

Friedrich Nietzsche’s Philosophy of Übermensch (Overman) and Muhammad Iqbal’s Philosophy of Insan-i-Kamal (Perfect Man): Comparative Analysis

The aim of this paper is to highlight the concept of man in the philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche and Mohammad Iqbal and present the comparative analysis of both philosophers. Nietzsche introduced the idea of Übermensch (Overman or Superman) in his philosophy of human person in which all humans are called to become superman (Übermensch). For Nietzsche the exemplary human being is Übermensch which must be crafted through self-realization. As individual man must know, improve and master himself in order to live meaningful and fruitful life. While, Mohammad Iqbal centers his philosophy of human person around the idea of khudi (selfhood). By realizing his khudi man can become perfect man (Insan-i-Kamal). His perfect man is embodiment of divine qualities and characteristics. This paper discusses the thoughts and views of Nietzsche and Iqbal regarding the philosophy of human person.

Basic Human Duties from a Qur’anic Perspective

Human perfection is a depiction of God's greatness that humans are not only equipped with physical perfection but also psychic which makes them different from other creatures. Humans are endowed with reason in order to be able to distinguish between good and bad and to be able to analyse everything related to the universe which at its peak becomes a complete person so that humans carry out the tasks and responsibilities imposed by God on them to be fulfilled, guarded and maintained as well as possible. But in reality, many humans have forgotten this mandate, this can be seen from the development of humans who are increasingly far from their nature as perfect beings and deviate from their duties as humans. This paper aims to explain the nature of man and the main duties of man from the perspective of the Qur'an. Through descriptive method by utilising literature study, it can be concluded that the nature of man in the perspective of the Qur'an is the most perfect creature because it consists of body and soul, which has reason and lust and humans are Biological, Psychological and Sociological creatures. Then the main task of humans in the perspective of the Qur'an is as servants of Allah and as caliphs on earth, humans are given this task because humans are the most perfect creatures and have advantages over other creatures.

Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar Dalam pandangan Perspektif Tujuan Pendidikan Islam

The aim of this research is to analyze the Independent Learning Curriculum from the perspective of Islamic Education Objectives. This type of research is a literature review. Data collection with documentation. Data analysis with SLR. The results of the research are The Freedom to Learn Curriculum in the perspective of the goals of Islamic education outlines freedom to learn as the main foundation in achieving human perfection. The objectives of Islamic education included in the curriculum include the formation of noble morals, intellectual development, and mastery of knowledge that brings benefits to oneself and society. In addition, a holistic approach in teaching and learning is also emphasized, with an emphasis on integration between religious knowledge and general knowledge to create individuals who are balanced in spiritual, intellectual and social aspects. Thus, the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum in the perspective of the objectives of Islamic education seeks to create a generation that is empowered, moral and broad-minded in accordance with the principles of Islamic teachings.

A Comparative Study of the Principle of "Insān Kāmil " in the Mystical System of Ayn Al-Quzat Hamadani and Ibn Arabi

The idea of "Insān Kāmil" and defining its characteristics and explaining its examples is one of the long-term categories in Islamic mysticism. This idea has been proposed in the mystical system of Ayn al-Quzat and Ibn Arabi, to belong to two different traditions, with common and sometimes distinct characteristics. The present study aims to explain the common and different aspects of the concept of "perfect man" in the mystical views of Ayn al-Quzat and Ibn Arabi by using a analytic-comparative method. The result of the research indicates that belief in elements such as perfect human’s being the mirror; the right to be a creature, mediation between right and creation, and having the position of the vicegerent of God are common to the mystical worldview of Ayn al-Quzat and Ibn Arabi in defining "perfect man". Among the differences between their views on the subject of "perfect man" are: A) In Ibn Arabi's mysticism, "Insān Kāmil" is the manifestation of the great name "Allah", endowed God-given with the divine and ancient truths, and as a result, the root of "fascinated mystic" in terminology called Sufi, but in the views of Ayn al-Quzat, this concept is defined along with "I am like you" and it can be interpreted as "fascinated mystic". B) In the mystical system of Ayn al-Quzat, Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is introduced as the true criterion of "perfect man", while in Ibn Arabi's school, the concept of "perfect man" is synonymous with Muhammadan truth or Muhammadan word and light, in which each of the prophets is a manifestation of They are its manifestations. C) The theory of "perfect man" has an epistemological aspect in Ayn al-Quzat’s mysticism, but in Ibn Arabi's worldview, this concept is used to reconcile the existential and epistemological fields. D) In the ontology of Ayn al-Quzat, "the perfect man" is the manifestation of the name of beauty, and in the school of Ibn Arabi, it has a comprehensive appearance of both aesthetic and glorious aspects.