1.

Distinguish Essentialism and Existentialism Philosophical Perspectives

Essentialism and existentialism are two distinct philosophical perspectives that offer
different ways of understanding the world and our place in it. Essentialism is the belief
that everything has a fixed and inherent nature or essence that defines it. This
perspective assumes that things have an objective, essential quality that makes them
what they are. On the other hand, existentialism is the belief that individuals create their
own meaning and purpose in life. This perspective assumes that there is no inherent
meaning in the world and that individuals must create their own purpose through their
choices and actions.

2. Give 2 proponents for each Philosophical Perspective and briefly discuss

their contribution to Understanding the Self

Two proponents of essentialism are Plato and Aristotle. Plato believed that the essential
nature of things exists in a realm of ideal forms that is separate from the physical world.
Aristotle believed that everything has a telos or purpose that is inherent in its nature.
Two proponents of existentialism are Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche. Sartre
believed that individuals create their own meaning through their choices and actions,
and that there is no inherent meaning in the world. Nietzsche believed that individuals
must create their own values and meanings, and that traditional morality and values are
merely the result of societal conditioning.

3. Give 1 concrete situation (maybe an actual or a theoretical situation) that

best illustrates each Philosophical Perspective

A concrete situation that illustrates essentialism is the belief in a soul or spirit that exists
independent of the body. For example, many religious traditions posit that the soul is
immortal and will continue to exist even after the body dies. Another concrete situation
that illustrates existentialism is the concept of the "midlife crisis." During this period,
individuals often re-evaluate their lives and make significant changes to their identity
and lifestyle based on their own choices and experiences. This illustrates the idea that
the self is constantly evolving and changing based on the choices and actions of the
individual.