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The Person and Others
The Person and Others
DIALOGUE – was identified by Buber in his studies of the “self-other” relationship as a deeper
level of interaction among individuals.
HOW DOES PHILOSOPHY DEFINE HUMAN RELATIONS? WHAT PHILOSOPHICAL CONCEPTS ARE
RELATED TO HUMAN RELATIONS?
1
THE PERSON AND OTHERS
- Interpersonal relationships may be simply defined as that relationship that exists
between two or more persons. It differs from a person’s association, or relating to
impersonal objects. There are different types of interpersonal relationships ranging from
intra family relationships (by birth, marriage, etc.) to friendship, religion, etc.
- Religion plays many roles in defining interpersonal relationships, and one of its
fundamental principles is the Golden Rule – "Do unto others as you would have them do
unto you." This includes virtues such as the Fruits of the Spirit, love demonstrated
through service and sacrifice, as well as being honest and keeping one's word.
- This Christian viewpoint analyzes human relationships within the context of community.
- Humans naturally seek fellowship with each other
to love one another,
support each other,
and minister to one another.
- The strongest relationships were formed between parents and their children, between
friends, and between a man and his wife. Far more important is God's connection with
man, which is characterized as a fellowship and covenant.
- In the Old Testament, God’s relationship with mankind began with the Creation.
This first bond, however, was shattered by Adam and Eve's disobedience and
Cain's murder of Abel—acts that breached the fellowship covenant.
However, despite mankind's tendency to sin and disobey God's commands, God
has repeatedly reaffirmed His initial covenant.
Among the great covenants created between God and His chosen people is
Noah's escape from the Great Flood, Abraham's trip to the Promised Land, the
liberation of the Israelites from Egypt, the Ten Commandments, and God's
promise to David.
- In the New Testament, Jesus Christ has redefined God’s covenant through His death and
resurrection.
“Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 21:31)
“Do unto others what you would have them do unto you” (Matthew 7:12)
- The unprivileged in society, notably the poor and the disabled, are among those who
deserve support, kindness, and care.