The Self in Western and Oriental/Eastern Thoughts

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and philosophies discussed in the module about the self in Western and Eastern thoughts.

Colonial Mentality

The belief that western culture is superior to eastern culture due to historical colonial influences.

Individualistic Self

A concept of self that emphasizes personal independence and the importance of individual rights.

Collective Self

A notion of self that prioritizes group identity and collective responsibilities over individual aspirations.

Dualism

The idea or principle that the mind and body are distinct entities, often associated with Descartes' philosophy.

Hylemorphic Theory

Aristotle's theory that every physical object is a compound of matter and form.

Pineal Gland

A small endocrine gland in the brain that Descartes thought was the site where the mind and body interact.

Arete

The concept of excellence or virtue in achieving one's potential.

Meditation

A practice in eastern philosophy aimed at achieving mental clarity and spiritual enlightenment.

Four Noble Truths

Fundamental principles of Buddhism that outline the nature of suffering and the path to overcoming it.

Suffering

The inherent difficulty and pain in life, as described in Buddhist philosophy.

Craving and Aversion

Desires that lead to suffering according to the second Noble Truth in Buddhism.

Eightfold Path

The Buddha's guide to ethical and mental development with the goal of freeing the individual from attachments and delusions.

Ren

A Confucian concept that refers to humaneness or compassion toward others.

Junzi

A noble person or exemplary human in Confucianism who possesses virtues like benevolence and righteousness.

Mindfulness

The practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, a key aspect of Buddhist teachings.

Confucianism

A philosophical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing morality, social relationships, and justice.

Philosophy

A study that seeks to understand fundamental truths about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and reality.

Enlightenment

A state in eastern philosophies where one realizes their true nature and attains spiritual insight.

Moral Life

Living according to ethical principles, as proposed in Buddhist philosophy.

Social Order

The means by which individuals work collectively for the common good, emphasized in Confucianism.

Self-Realization

The awareness and fulfillment of one's potential and talents.

Cultural Exchange

The process through which different cultures share ideas, products, or customs, fostering mutual appreciation.

Eastern Philosophy

A broad term referring to philosophical traditions from Asia, often emphasizing collectivism and spirituality.

Western Philosophy

A philosophical tradition rooted in ancient Greek thought, emphasizing rationality and individualism.

Education in Confucianism

The process of moral cultivation under a virtuous teacher to develop character and ethical disposition.

Self-Reflection

The process of introspectively examining one's thoughts and actions, significant in both eastern and western philosophies.

Happiness

A state of well-being and contentment, viewed differently in eastern and western traditions.

Collective Identity

The identity of an individual as perceived in relation to their group or community.

Self-Concept

An idea of the self that is derived from the beliefs one holds about oneself.

Philosophical Inquiry

The pursuit of understanding through systematic investigation of fundamental questions about existence.

Tempering Desires

The process of managing or modifying one's cravings to achieve emotional balance and happiness.

Spirituality

A broad concept involving a sense of connection to something bigger than oneself, often in a religious context.

Cultural Appreciation

Recognizing and valuing the distinct attributes and contributions of different cultures.