NOTES 3

UNIT 5: SELF IN WESTERN AND EASTERN THOUGHT

Eastern Self

• Everyone is interconnected in a drama with specific roles.

Self-cultivation: The cultivated self in Confucianism is what some scholars call a “subdued self”
wherein personal needs are repressed [subdue] for the good of many, making Confucian society
also hierarchal for the purpose of maintaining order and balance.

• Second philosophy is Taoism. Taoism was founded by Lao Tzu. Taoism is living to the way of the
Tao (Universe). However, they reject the hierarchy and strictness of Confucianism. Taoism prefers
to live a simple life.

• The 3rd is Buddhism. The self is seen as an illusion, born out of ignorance, of trying to hold and
control things, or human centered needs; thus, the self is also the source of all these suffering.

Western Self

• Western Self focuses on self (Individualistic). You compare in order to be better. You create
associations and bask in the glory of that group for your self-esteem. You put primacy on
developing yourself.

Western and Eastern Differences

• Western referred as the school of thought from Greek Philosophy.

• It is rooted from Rome and Christianity.
• Eastern roots are from Asia. They believe that natural world does not follow laws, it simply 'is'. It
is collectivist in culture. It is all about 'We'. Drawn on people's actions and thought as one
• . Trying to get rid of the false 'me' concept and find meaning in discovering the true 'me'. Life is
all about unity. The inner self must be freed.

Western and Eastern Similarities

• Both approach share a concept that a deeper understanding of reality is possible. Influenced by
the notion that there is a supreme being who guides the mankind and provides for all he created.
Believes in the concept of "god as the king of universe"