Understanding Human Nature: Man the Jewel of Creation

COURSE CONTENT

27:27

LESSON ONE

The Human Identity Problem

Man, the Animal: Sensation and Sense Appetite

The Human Difference: Rationality

Man, the Moral

Man, the Contemplative

Audio Only

LESSON FIVE

Man, the Contemplative

In this final episode, you will explore Aristotle’s claim that contemplation is the highest activity of man. You’ll learn about the difference between “speculative reason” and “practical reason”—and the primacy of the former in the philosophical tradition. You will begin to see how embracing the primacy of contemplation can bring meaning to every other aspect of your life. You’ll also discover the role of friendship for the rational animal.