L3 Understanding the self - Western vs Eastern Thought

Western Thought

• Individualism – self as independent; focus on personal rights, freedom, and scientific understanding of the self.

• Uses scientific methods to study the self.

• Culture: individualistic (emphasis on the person).

Eastern Thought

• Collectivism – self in relation to others, society, and the universe.

• Emphasis on relationships and practical self-cultivation techniques.

• Does not rely on scientific methods.

Major Eastern Philosophies

1. Buddhism

• Founder: Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha).

• 5 aggregates: matter, sensation, perception, mental constructs, consciousness.

• No permanent self; all is impermanent (anicca).

• Goal: Nirvana – transcendence beyond self, achieved through meditation.

2. Hinduism

• Key concept: Atman (immortal self) & Karma.

• Reincarnation until freed from rebirth cycle → Nirvana.

• Karma’s effects carry across lifetimes.

3. Confucianism

• Founder: Confucius.

• Focus: self-cultivation through knowing one’s societal role & moral improvement.

• Key virtues: Li (proper conduct), Xiao (filial piety), Yi (justice/righteousness).

4. Taoism

• Founder: Lao Tzu.

• Self as an extension of the cosmos (Tao).

• Ideal: selflessness, harmony with nature.

• Yin-Yang – unity of opposites for balance.