SYNDERESIS AND CONSCIENCE - JAN ZATOROWSKI

An insightful analysis of the issue of conscience, leading from ancient philosophers to contemporary considerations. This book examines the evolution of the concept of conscience, both in general and in particular, from the time of Socrates to the present. The author emphasizes the key importance of the subjective moral norm, which is the first principle of human action: Do good, avoid evil. Conscience, also called synderesis, is the natural inclination of the intellect to good, which keeps us away from evil, provided that we constantly improve this natural ability in ourselves.

• In-depth analysis of the concept of conscience throughout the ages
• Emphasis on the role of the subjective moral norm
• Explanation of the concept of synderesis as a natural inclination to good
• Tips on improving natural intellectual abilities
• Important reading in the context of the contemporary moral crisis

This publication is of great importance in the context of the contemporary moral crisis, as it draws attention to the internal structure of man and its order. It emphasizes the reasonableness of the human being and its freedom. Reasonableness and freedom as integral elements of the human structure distinguish man from other creatures, elevating him above temporality and leading him to eternal existence, to God. Man, co-created by the soul, whose powers are intellect and will, may not use them or be unaware of possessing them, but they constitute his equipment and determine his humanity.

Man cannot get rid of his humanity, his essence, but he can betray it by allowing the animalistic in him to dominate. We then speak of the dehumanization of man and of disordered behavior that denies the internal order of the human structure. Human behaviors that abstract from the internal order in man are called disordered, and intellect and conscience guard this order. The first principles help them.

The connection between conscience and human freedom is rarely emphasized. Man manifests his freedom by acting in accordance with his conscience. Fidelity to one's own conscience is the basis of human freedom and autonomy. This book is an invitation to reflect on one's own conscience and to live in accordance with it.

Published by von Borowiecky, 2013, 238 pages, format: 146x211 mm, paperback.