THE SELF IN WESTERN AND

O R I E N TA L / E A S T E R N
THOUGHT
INDIVIDUALISTIC SELF
VS
COLLECTIVE SELF
INDIVIDUALISTIC SELF
• Example of the description would include an individual identifies primarily with
self, with the needs of the individual being satisfied before those of the group.
Looking after and taking care of ourselves, being self-sufficient, guarantees the
well-being of the group. Independence and self-reliance are greatly stressed and
valued.
• In general, people tend to distance themselves psychologically and emotionally
from each other. One may choose to join groups, but group membership is not
essential to one’s identity or success. Individualist characteristics are often
associated with men and people in urban settings.
• Western cultures are known to be individualistic.
COLLECTIVE SELF
• Examples of the collectivist thinking is when our identity is in large part, a
function of our membership and role in a group, e.g., the family or work team.
The survival and success of the group ensures the well-being of the individual,
so that by considering the needs and feelings of others, one protects oneself.
Harmony and the interdependence of group members are stressed and valued.
Group members are relatively close psychologically and emotionally, but
distant toward non-group members. Collectivist characteristics are often
associated with women and people in rural settings.
• Asian countries are known to be collective in nature.
THE SELF IN CONFUCIAN THOUGHT
• Confucius was born in the period of the Zhou Dynasty in 551 BCE
in the state of Lu. He grew up poor although he was descended
from scholarly family.
• Confucius philosophy is known as humanistic social philosophy
which focuses on human beings and the society in general.
• Confucianism is centered on ren which can be manifested through
the li (propriety), xiao (filiality), and yi (rightness). For Confucius,
ren reflects the person’s own understanding of humanity. It is found
within each person and can be realized in one’s personal life and
relationship. Ren guides human actions that makes life worth living
which can be realized through li, xiao, and yi:
• Li the propriety. Rules of propriety should be followed to guide
human actions. These rules are the customs, ceremonies, and
traditions that forms the basis of li.
• Xiao the filiality. This is the virtue of reverence and respect for
the family. Parents should be revered for the life they and given.
Children show respect to their parents by exerting efforts to take
care of themselves.
• Yi the rightness. The right way of behaving which is unconditional
and absolute. Right is right, and what is not right is wrong
THANK YOU!!!