The Western and Eastern Concepts of Self

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering key terms and definitions from Western and Eastern concepts of self, including major philosophical and religious traditions discussed in the lecture notes.

Self (Western concept)

An independent, self-contained identity whose traits are relatively stable and who acts as the center of experience.

Self (Eastern concept)

A relational, interdependent identity defined in relation to others, society, and the universe.

Frame of Reference (Western Thought)

Religion and philosophy are separated; emphasis on rational, empirical methods to understand the self.

Frame of Reference (Eastern Thought)

Philosophy and religion/spirituality are intertwined; self understood through practice, belief, and relational context.

Source of Knowledge (Western Thought)

Reason and scientific methods (analytic, deductive, linear) used to pursue wisdom.

Source of Knowledge (Eastern Thought)

Intuition and experiential insight (synthetic, inductive, circular) often linked to spirituality.

Modes of Cognition (Western/Eastern)

Western: analytic and deductive; Eastern: synthetic and inductive.

View of the Universe and Life (Western)

Linear; emphasizes distinctions, oppositions, and progress.

View of the Universe and Life (Eastern)

Circular; emphasizes commonalities, harmony, and interconnection.

Theological View (Western Thought)

Monotheistic beliefs are common in some Western traditions.

Theological View (Eastern Thought)

Polytheistic/Pluralistic perspectives are common in various Eastern traditions.

Individualism

Self is autonomous and independent; personal goals are prioritized.

Collectivism

Self is interdependent; group goals and harmonious social relations are prioritized.

Buddhism – Four Noble Truths

Life involves suffering; craving causes suffering; suffering can cease; there is a path to end suffering.

Nirvana

The highest Buddhist goal: freedom from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Understanding

Correct understanding of the nature of reality as part of the path.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Thought

Positive intention and mental attitude guiding actions.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Speech

Ethical, truthful, and harmless communication.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Action

Ethical conduct and non-harmful behavior.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Livelihood

Choosing a wise and ethical occupation.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Effort

Cultivating wholesome states and preventing unwholesome ones.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Mindfulness

Developing clear awareness of body, feelings, mind, and phenomena.

Noble Eightfold Path – Right Concentration

Cultivating deep meditative absorption as focus.

Middle Way

Buddhist path of balance between self-indulgence and self-denial, leading to wisdom and Nirvana.

Three Jewels (Triratna)

Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha as refuges for guidance and strength.

Five Precepts

Ethical guidelines: avoid killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants.

Non-theistic Belief (Buddhism)

Buddhism does not worship one supreme God; the Buddha is a moral teacher, not a deity.

Brahman

The ultimate, infinite reality in Hinduism; the supreme cosmic spirit.

Atman

The individual eternal soul; the true self within each person.

Tat Tvam Asi

Upanishadic phrase meaning 'You are that' — Atman and Brahman are one.

Karma

Law of cause and effect; actions influence future rebirths.

Samsara

The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Moksha

Liberation from Samsara; union with Brahman.

Ren (Confucianism)

Humaneness; compassion and benevolence toward others.

Xiao (Confucianism)

Filial piety; respect and devotion to parents and elders.

Li (Confucianism)

Propriety; proper behavior, rituals, and manners to maintain harmony.

Yi (Confucianism)

Righteousness/justice; doing what is right and fair.

Xin (Confucianism)

Faithfulness/honesty; trustworthiness in words and actions.

Tao (Taoism)

The Way; the natural order and ultimate reality to align with.

Wu Wei (Taoism)

Effortless action; acting in harmony with the Tao.

Yin and Yang

Complementary, interdependent forces shaping balance in the universe.

Self in Taoism

The self is an extension of the cosmos; ideal to identify with the Tao; ultimate form is no-self.

Siddhartha Gautama

The Buddha; founder of Buddhism.

Buddha

The awakened one; teacher of the path; not viewed as a god in Buddhism.

Jon’s Roles and Identities

People fluidly shift roles (professor, husband, father, church servant); the self is adaptive and dynamic.