Uts Chapter 1 Lesson 4

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PHILIPPINE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

OLD NALSIAN ROAD, BRGY. NALSIAN, CALASIAO, PANGASINAN
Understanding the Self

Chapter 1: Defining the Self
The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts
Presented by: John Jerome S. Gironella RN, LPT, MAN
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Western thought and Eastern thought are broad categories that

encompass a wide range of philosophical, cultural, and intellectual
traditions. These categories are often used to distinguish between the
major philosophical and cultural perspectives that have emerged in
different regions of the world
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Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought
Western thought:
• Individualism: Western thought often places a strong emphasis on individualism and the
importance of the individual as a unique and autonomous agent. This can be seen in the works
of philosophers like René Descartes, who famously stated, "I think, therefore I am," highlighting
the significance of individual is self-awareness.
• Rationalism: Western thought has a long history of rational inquiry and the use of reason as a
means of understanding the world. This approach to knowledge is evident in the development
of Western philosophy, science, and the Enlightenment movement.
• Dualism: Dualistic thinking, particularly mind-body dualism, is a hallmark of Western thought.

Descartes' distinction between the thinking mind (res cogitans) and the physical body (res
extensa) is a classic example of this dualistic perspective.
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• Secularism: Western societies have often separated religion from secular or governmental
institutions. This separation of church and state has been a defining feature of many Western
democracies.
• Empiricism: Empirical methods, such as observation and experimentation, are frequently used
in Western science and philosophy to acquire knowledge about the world.
• Humanism: Humanism is a central theme in Western thought, emphasizing the intrinsic value
and dignity of the individual. This humanistic perspective has influenced fields like ethics,
literature, and art.
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• Existentialism: Existentialist philosophy, which emerged in the 20th century, explores themes of
individual freedom, choice, and the search for meaning in an often-absurd world. Existentialist
thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus are prominent figures in this tradition.
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Eastern thought:
• Holism and Interconnectedness: Eastern thought often emphasizes the interconnectedness of
all things and the idea that the individual is intimately linked to the whole of existence. This
perspective is found in philosophies like Buddhism and Taoism.
• Non-Duality: Some Eastern philosophies, such as Advaita Vedanta, emphasize the concept of
non-duality, suggesting that the apparent distinctions between self and other, or between
individual and cosmos, are illusory.
• Mysticism: Eastern thought frequently includes mystical and contemplative practices aimed at
achieving direct spiritual experience or enlightenment. Meditation is a prominent example of
such practices.
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• Cyclic and Eternal Time: Many Eastern traditions have views of time that differ from the linear
perspective common in the West. Concepts of cyclical time, reincarnation, and eternal
recurrence are prevalent.
• Karma and Reincarnation: Belief in karma (the law of cause and effect) and reincarnation (the
cycle of rebirth) is common in Eastern religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism.
• Collectivism: Eastern cultures often place a greater emphasis on collectivism, community, and
the well-being of the group over individual interests.
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• Nature and Harmony: Eastern thought frequently values harmony with nature
and often draws inspiration from the natural world in philosophical and artistic
expressions.
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• Confucianism
 is a philosophical and ethical system that originated in China and has had a profound influence on
Chinese culture, society, and thought for over two millennia. Founded on the teachings of Confucius (Kong
Fuzi or Kongzi), also known as Master Kong, Confucianism emphasizes moral and ethical values, social
harmony, and the cultivation of virtuous individuals.
 Confucianism can be seen as a code of ethical conduct, of how one should properly act according to their
relationship with other people; thus, it is also focused on having a harmonious social life . Therefore, the
identity and status of his/her community or culture, sharing its pride as well as its failures.
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 Self- cultivation is seen as the ultimate purpose of life but the characteristics of
a chun tzu (ideal man of a society), a man of virtue or noble character, is still
embedded in his social relationships.
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Principles of Confucianism
1. Ren ( 仁 ) - Benevolence and Humaneness:
• Ren is considered the central virtue in Confucianism. It refers to a sense of kindness,
benevolence, empathy, and compassion towards others.
• Confucius taught that individuals should cultivate their moral character through the practice of
ren, which leads to harmonious relationships and a just society.
2. Li ( 礼 ) - Ritual Propriety and Etiquette:

• Li encompasses proper conduct, rituals, and social etiquette. It emphasizes the importance of
behaving in accordance with established social norms and customs.
• Rituals and ceremonies play a significant role in Confucianism, as they help maintain social
order and express respect for tradition.
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3. Xiao ( 孝 ) - Filial Piety:
• Xiao emphasizes the virtue of respect and obedience to one's parents and ancestors. It is
considered a fundamental moral duty in Confucianism.
• Filial piety is seen as the foundation for broader ethical conduct and social harmony.
4. Yi ( 义 ) - Righteousness and Justice:

• Yi pertains to the concept of doing what is right, just, and morally upright. It includes the
protection of the weak and oppressed.
• Confucius believed that individuals should act in accordance with yi to promote social justice.
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5. Zhi ( 智 ) - Wisdom and Knowledge:
• Zhi represents the pursuit of wisdom, knowledge, and education. Confucianism places a high
value on learning and self-improvement.
• The cultivation of wisdom and moral character is viewed as a lifelong endeavor.
6. Xiao Jing (Classic of Filial Piety) and Other Texts:

• The Xiao Jing, or "Classic of Filial Piety," is a Confucian text that elaborates on the importance of
filial piety.
• Other important Confucian texts include the Analects (Lunyu), which records the sayings and
ideas of Confucius, and the Five Classics, which are foundational texts in Chinese culture.
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7. Zhong ( 忠 ): Zhong signifies "loyalty" and "faithfulness.“
• Confucianism values loyalty to one's family, friends, and rulers. It involves a sense of
commitment and dedication to fulfilling one's responsibilities and obligations.
8. Shu ( 恕 ):
• Shu is often translated as "reciprocity" or the "Golden Rule." It encourages individuals to treat
others as they would like to be treated. This principle guides ethical behavior by promoting
empathy and fairness.
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9. Junzi ( 君子 ):
• Junzi refers to the ideal Confucian person, often translated as the "gentleman" or "noble
person." A junzi is someone who embodies the Confucian virtues and principles, consistently
striving to improve themselves and contribute positively to society.
10. He ( 和 ):
• He means "harmony" or "peace." Confucianism seeks to promote social harmony and unity by
fostering respectful and harmonious relationships among individuals and within society.
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• Taoism
 also known as Daoism is a Chinese philosophy attributed to Lao Tzu (c. 500
BCE) which contributed to the folk religion of the people primarily in the rural
areas of China and became the official religion of the country under the Tang
Dynasty.
 Taoism is living in the way of the Tao or the universe. However, Taoism rejects
having one definition of what the Tao is, and one can only state clues of what it
is as they adopt a free- flowing, relative, unitary, as well as paradoxical view of
almost everything. Taoism rejects the hierarchy and strictness brought by
Confucianism and would prefer a simple lifestyle and its teachings thus aim to
describe how to attain that life.
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• The ‘Three Jewels of Tao’ refer to the three virtues of Taoism:
 Compassion, kindness, love

 Moderation, simplicity, frugality
 Humility, modesty
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• Buddhism
 is a faith that was founded by Siddhartha Gautama (“the Buddha”) more than 2,500 years ago
in India. With about 470 million followers, scholars consider Buddhism one of the major world
religions.
Some key Buddhism beliefs include:

1. Followers of Buddhism don’t acknowledge a supreme god or deity. They instead focus on
achieving enlightenment—a state of inner peace and wisdom.
2. The religion’s founder, Buddha, is considered an extraordinary man, but not a god. The word
Buddha means “enlightened.”
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3. Some scholars don’t recognize Buddhism as an organized religion, but rather, a
“way of life” or a “spiritual tradition.”
4. Buddhism encourages its people to avoid self-indulgence but also self-denial.
5. Buddhists embrace the concepts of karma (the law of cause and effect) and
reincarnation (the continuous cycle of rebirth)
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THE 4 NOBLE TRUTHS OF BUDDHISM
 The Truth of Suffering – old age, sickness, death, failed expectations.
 The Truth of the Origin of Suffering – roots of evil: Greed, Ignorance, Hatred
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 The Truth of the Cessation of Suffering – to end suffering, one must be

liberated from attachment.
 The Truth of the Path to the cessation of Suffering – identifying the way to
right understanding; judgment; speech; action; effort; concentration; etc
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PhilCST

PHILIPPINE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Understanding the Self

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

Western thought and Eastern thought are broad categories that

Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought

• Dualism: Dualistic thinking, particularly mind-body dualism, is a hallmark of Western thought.

Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought

Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought

Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought

Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought

Characteristics and Themes associated with Western and Eastern Thought

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

2. Li ( 礼 ) - Ritual Propriety and Etiquette:

4. Yi ( 义 ) - Righteousness and Justice:

6. Xiao Jing (Classic of Filial Piety) and Other Texts:

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

 Compassion, kindness, love

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

Some key Buddhism beliefs include:

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

4. Buddhism encourages its people to avoid self-indulgence but also self-denial.

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

 The Truth of Suffering – old age, sickness, death, failed expectations.

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

 The Truth of the Cessation of Suffering – to end suffering, one must be

The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts

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