The Self in Western and Oriental/Eastern Thought

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing key concepts, cultural comparisons, and philosophical terms regarding the self in Western and Eastern perspectives.

Independent Self

The Western perspective viewing the self as an individual, separate from others, defined by personal attributes, choices, rationality, and achievements.

Interdependent Self

The Eastern perspective viewing the self as interconnected with others, embedded in relationships, and defined by social roles, harmony, and spiritual growth.

Individualistic Self

A self-concept emphasizing personal goals, autonomy, personal rights, freedom of choice, self-expression, and individual uniqueness.

Collective Self

A self-concept emphasizing membership in and responsibility toward groups, valuing interdependence, shared goals, harmony, and relationships.

Individualistic and Collective Self: Comparison

A comparison table illustrating general cultural tendencies, contrasting individualistic traits (focus on individual, autonomy, 'I' orientation) with collective traits (focus on group, relationships, 'We' orientation).

Social Construction of the Self

The concept that a person's understanding of identity develops partly through interactions with parents, friends, culture, religion, and society rather than in complete isolation.

Kapwa

A Filipino concept relevant to identity that emphasizes shared identity and connectedness with others.

Relational Self

An Eastern concept where identity is understood through relationships with family, teachers, community, nature, and spiritual reality rather than as an isolated individual.

Ren

A Confucian concept translated as humaneness, benevolence, or compassion toward others, cultivated by learning to treat others with humanity and concern.

Li

A Confucian concept referring broadly to appropriate conduct, ritual, propriety, and socially appropriate behavior within relationships and society.

Xiao

A Confucian concept referring to filial piety, specifically respect and proper conduct toward one's parents and elders.

Self-Cultivation

A central Confucian idea that becoming a better person requires continuous effort to develop good character, moral judgment, respect, responsibility, discipline, and compassion.