Magda Arnold’s understanding of the human person

What is it about?

Magda Arnold (1903–2002) is well known for her research on emotions, motivation, and memory from a neurological, physiological, and psychological point of view. However, her works in the field of the anthropological foundations of personality are less known and discussed. The present study presents some aspects of Arnold’s conception of a human’s nature as being based or convergent on Aquinas’s doctrine: (a) a nonreductionist conception of the human being, (b) the psychophysical unity of the person, (c) the self-ideal as it ought to be as the main factor of personality integration, and (d) God as the origin and ultimate goal of human existence.

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Why is it important?

Magda Arnold’s work is significant because of its interdisciplinary nature, exploring human emotions, motivation, and memory from neurological, physiological, and psychological perspectives. However, her less-discussed contributions in the area of anthropology and personality are noteworthy, especially in their convergence with Thomistic (Aquinas’s) thought. Arnold's conception of the human being is non-reductionist, avoids reducing human nature solely to biology or any single discipline, and acknowledges the complexity of the human being, recognizing that people cannot be fully understood through any one lens. Likewise, Arnold recognizes the psychophysical unity of the person, challenging more reductionist psychological theories that separate mind and body, and states that self-ideal (the person’s conception of who they should be) is a personality integrator, playing a key role in personality development and integration is essential. According to Arnold, one's sense of identity and moral goals serves as guiding forces in how he/she navigate the complexities of life. It implies that human behavior is not just reactive but is driven by ideals and aspirations, a concept with deep philosophical roots. The mention of God as the origin and ultimate goal of human existence ties Arnold’s psychological work to a larger, existential framework. She places human life within a metaphysical context, suggesting that personality formation and human flourishing are ultimately connected to divine purpose. This resonates with Aquinas’s views on the human being’s ultimate end, which is union with God, emphasizing the importance of spiritual and moral dimensions of personality. In summary, Arnold's interdisciplinary approach blends psychological theory with Thomistic philosophy, offering a rich, holistic perspective on human nature. Her work encourages a deeper understanding of personality that integrates the body, mind, morality, and spirituality, making her contributions significant for fields ranging from psychology to philosophy and theology.