The Self in Western and Oriental or Eastern Thought

Vocabulary flashcards covering Western and Eastern philosophical perspectives on the self, including specific categorical frameworks and cultural concepts.

Analytical

A contemporary western discussion category that emphasizes a cognitive and introspective approach to self-examination, involving the systematic dissection of thoughts and emotions.

Monotheistic

A western discussion category deeply rooted in religious and spiritual traditions such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

Individualistic (Johnson, 1985)

A contemporary western discussion category that emphasizes personal autonomy and uniqueness.

Materialistic or Rationalistic

A western discussion category that focuses on tangible and empirical aspects of the self, prioritizing reason, logic, and empirical evidence.

Vedas

The earliest religious writings in the East that formed Hindu philosophy and dharma, illustrating a completely unified universe with the creator.

Brahman

In Hinduism, the true nature of humans which is the divine universal consciousness encompassing the universe and existing within everyone.

Annata

A Buddhist concept meaning 'no-self' or 'no-soul', suggesting there is no permanent or unchanging self and that individuals are a transient collection of components.

Nirvana

The state of liberation in Buddhism where individuals achieve freedom from suffering and the cycle of birth and death known as samsara.

Jen

A Confucian beginning representing the heart of compassion, involving treating others with respect and kindness to create harmonious relationships.

Yi

A Confucian beginning representing the heart of righteousness, acting with integrity, and seeking fairness and justice.

Li

A Confucian beginning representing the heart of propriety, emphasizing proper conduct, etiquette, and decorum in social situations.

Chih

A Confucian beginning representing the heart of wisdom, which includes sound judgment, critical thinking, and informed decision-making.

Tao

In Taoism, the cosmos or universe of which the self is considered one of countless manifestations.

Nafs

The Islamic term for the self, referring to the psyche or soul which must be nurtured and self-regulated to progress toward being 'good'.

Individualistic (Social Perspective)

A perspective oriented around the individual, highly valuing independence, self-reliance, and personal achievements.

Collectivist

A perspective emphasizing interdependence and harmonious relatedness where maintaining social networks and fulfilling obligations are of utmost importance.

Private Self-concept

According to Baumeister (1986), the mental processes that perceive one’s own traits or behaviors.

Public Self-concept

According to Baumeister (1986), the generalized view of the self.

Collective Self-concept

According to Baumeister (1986), the view of the self within a collective concept.