modern psych in hist perspective - eastern ethos and spirituality

how are heavenly laws and ethics viewed in confucianism?

as eternal and non-negotiable

what is emphasized in confucianism?

ethics, obedience, loyalty, respect for tradition, and social hierarchy

does confucianism promote collectivism or individualism?

collectivism

how does Taoism view intuition?

as something you should trust

how can you connect to the world in Taoism?

through meditation

how does Taoism view each individual person?

as a microcosm that reflects the harmony and patterns of the universal macrocosm

what does Taoism recommend?

removing conflict and anger, being kind to yourself, pacing your life in a way that reflects your true essence, sanctity of all forms of life, vegetarianism

Tao

the wisdom of the universe, guiding principle of harmony and interconnectedness in all things

according to Taoism, what does a wise life involve?

keeping the mind and body in harmony with nature and the cosmic order

how are balance, spiritual mindfulness and connectedness with the Tao cultivated?

decent conduct, inner calm, meditation, self-discipline

wu wei

effortless action

while practicing wu Wei, what should you avoid?

excessive desires, attachments, overactive drives, obsession with control, egocentrism

what are the three essential aspects of the soul in Taoism?

Shen, Po, Qi

Shen

the divine aspect, belongs to the cosmic spirit, linked to the yang principle, immortal

yang principle

consciousness, reason, creativity

Po

the sensorimotor aspect, linked to the yin principle, perishes with the body

yin principle

instincts, emotions

Qi

the animating, energizing aspect, based on the positive cosmic energy that connects the body with the universe

how do you unblock Qi?

acupuncture, meditation, Tai Chi

samsara

the Buddhist cycle of life, death, and rebirth

how is the individual self viewed in Buddhism?

as transient, not eternal

what continues after death in Buddhism?

the consciousness and karmic energy, carrying memory of all actions and intentions

what is the transfer of rebirth like in Buddhism?

like a flame passed from one candle to another, continuity without identity

how is the Lama different?

they may choose to reincarnate intentionally, to guide and help others

what does the path to Nirvana involve?

cultivating ethical conduct, ascetic practices, meditation, prayers, and self-discipline

what does suffering arise from in Buddhism?

from false desires and attachments

what does Buddhism believe leads to mental and social disorder?

excessive emotions

what has Buddhism contributed to psychotherapy?

emphasis on acceptance of reality, mental clarity, and peace of mind

Zen Buddhist therapies

Naikan and Morita therapy

Naikan

self-reflection on one’s relationships and gratitude

Morita therapy

acceptance of emotions and focus on purposeful action, regardless of feelings

Shintoism

belief in the intervention of viarious spirits (kami) regarded as gods, ancestral spirits, and the souls of deceased family members

how are kami treated?

with respect, reverence, and trust

major ethical values of Shintoism

sincerity, respect for nature, respect for ancestors’ spirits, gratitude and humility, loyalty to family and community

Hindu Vedas

hymns, incantations, and rituals

Hindu Upanishads

vedic wisdom and interpretation by gurus, recommend meditation to help gain the ultimate truth and reunite with divine truth, harmony, and beauty

what is Brahman?

the infinite, formless, eternal reality that underlies everything, not an anthropomorphic god but rather the absolute cosmic principle

what is Atman in Hinduism?

the individual soul that passes through samsara

what is samsara in Hinduism?

the consecutive cycle of reincarnations aimed at purification and ultimate liberation

what is spiritual purification achieved through in Hinduism?

accepting the law of karma, following the ethical code of life, and pursuing self-perfection through the four yogic paths

karma

every action, good or bad has consequences

the four yogic paths

the path of righteous action and ethical conduct, the path of devotion and love for god and people, the path of wisdom and spiritual insight, and the path of meditation and mental discipline

what does the spiritual purification ultimately lead to?

moksha

moksha

the liberation from samsara, freedom from suffering, desires and ego, and reunion with Brahman