Self in Western

and Eastern
Thought
CONFUCIANISM
It 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. Thus, identity and self-concept of the
individual are interwoven with the identity and
status of his/her community or culture,
sharing its pride as well as its failures.
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. Self is not an
extension of family or community. Self is part of the
universe, one of the forms and manifestations of
the Tao. The ideal self is selflessness but this is not
forgetting about the self, it is living a balanced-
about prejudices and egocentric ideas and thinking
about equality as well as complementarily among
humans as well as other beings.
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. Life is full of suffering and it is made up of a
cycle of birth, decay, illness, death. It is therefore our
quest to forget about the self, forget the craving of the
self, break the attachments you have with the world,
and to renounce the self w/c is the cause of suffering
and in doing so, attain the state of nirvana. Nirvana
(liberation)- blowing out the flames of desire.
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.

By focusing on the self, they may seem to have loose

associations or even loyalty to their groups.
Competition is the name of the game and they are
more likely straightforward and forceful in their
communication as well as decision making. They value
equality even if they see that individual can rise
above everything else. They also promote ideals that
create 'fair' competition and protect the individual.
Western referred as the school of thought from Greek Philosophy. It is rooted from
Rome and Christianity. Laws are the ones that govern the behavior. It is individualist
in culture. It is all about 'I'. Tries to find self as it is the given part of the divine.
Logical, scientific, rational, and focus on ethics.

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.
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"