Lesson 5
The Self in Western & Eastern Thought
In both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, the idea of the self has been explored
and understood in various ways as a fundamental component of human identity and
consciousness. While both traditions explore the nature of the self, they do so from
different angles and provide different perspectives on its existence and significance. Eastern
philosophical systems emphasize interconnectedness and the illusory nature of the
individual self. These systems have their roots in ancient traditions like Hinduism, Buddhism,
and Taoism. While attempting to understand the self as an independent and distinct entity,
Western philosophical thought, as exemplified by thinkers like Descartes, Kant, and
Nietzsche, frequently emphasizes individuality and reason. This section will explore the
fundamental distinctions and fascinating parallels between the Eastern and Western
conceptions of the self, illuminating the various viewpoints that have influenced how we
perceive human identity and existence (Ariola, 2018; Yamaguchi & Sawaumi, 2019).
Major Concept
Eastern Orientation- accepts truth as absolute and is more concerned with balance
Western Orientation- tries to discover and establish “the truth”
In general, Eastern society accepts "the truth" as given and is more concerned with finding a
balance than Western society, which seeks to discover and prove "the truth." Westerners
value individual rights more than Easterners value social responsibility. However, it is
important to note that these are broad generalizations, and individual beliefs and values can
vary significantly within both Eastern and Western cultures. Let's delve further into each
aspect:
Approach to Truth-Seeking
Eastern philosophies, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, emphasize the value of ancient
scriptures and the teachings of wise sages. In Eastern societies, there is frequently a strong
emphasis on accepting traditional wisdom, teachings, and cultural norms as "the truth."
Eastern cultures might give more weight to spiritual wisdom and philosophical teachings
that have been handed down through the ages.
The scientific method and rational inquiry are highly regarded, and Western cultures often
place a premium on the pursuit of knowledge through evidence-based reasoning and
experimentation. However, Western societies, influenced by the Enlightenment and
scientific revolution, tend to value critical thinking and empirical evidence when seeking
"the truth."
Seeking Balance vs. Discovering "The Truth"
Finding a harmonious balance between nature and life is frequently prioritized in eastern
cultures. This emphasis on achieving equilibrium and alignment with the natural order is
best exemplified by ideas like Yin and Yang in Chinese philosophy and the idea of Dharma in
Hinduism. Eastern cultures might be more prone to adopt a more holistic perspective on life
and strive for harmony between opposing forces.
Western societies, on the other hand, frequently place a greater emphasis on uncovering
absolute truths or universal principles. This is demonstrated by the Western tradition's
quest for truth and emphasis on debating and rigorously analyzing issues to arrive at
definitive conclusions.
Individual Rights vs. Social Responsibility
Western societies are characterized by a strong emphasis on individual rights, especially in
the context of liberal democracies. Personal autonomy, freedom of choice, and the defense
of individual rights and liberties are highly valued in Western culture. Individual rights are
prioritized in legal and political frameworks, which reflects the importance placed on
individuality and self-determination.
Eastern cultures, on the other hand, might place a greater emphasis on social harmony and
societal well- being. There may be a greater emphasis on social responsibility in some
Eastern societies, where people are expected to put the needs of their families and the
community before their own.
It is important to keep in mind that these are broad generalizations that don't necessarily
apply to all people or groups in Eastern and Western societies. A person's cultural attitudes
and values can differ greatly depending on the historical, political, and social circumstances
in which they are held. Furthermore, many societies have embraced elements from both
Eastern and Western traditions as a result of globalization and increased intercultural
exchange.
ASSESSMENT
LESSON 5 THE SELF IN WESTERN AND EASTERN THOUGHT
I. Choose the letter that represents the correct answer.
1.Which of the following statements best characterizes the approach to truth-
seeking in Eastern societies?
a)Eastern societies value individual rights and personal autonomy.
b)Eastern societies emphasize critical thinking and empirical evidence.
c)Eastern societies accept traditional wisdom and teachings as "the truth."
d)Eastern societies prioritize discovering definitive truths through rigorous analysis.
2.The concept of Yin and Yang in Chinese philosophy exemplifies:
a)The emphasis on individual rights in Eastern societies.
b)The importance of social responsibility in Eastern cultures.
c)The focus is on finding a harmonious balance between life and nature.
d)The pursuit of empirical evidence and scientific inquiry in Eastern cultures.
3.Which of the following principles is more commonly emphasized in Western
societies?
a)Valuing personal autonomy and individuality.
b)Placing a higher emphasis on social responsibility.
c)Seeking harmony and balance in all aspects of life.
d)Accepting traditional wisdom and teachings as absolute truths.
4.The Enlightenment and scientific revolution have had a significant influence on
which culture's approach to truth-seeking?
a)Eastern societies c) Both Eastern and Western societies
b)Western societies d) None of the above
5.What is a common characteristic of Western living principles?
a)Prioritizing social harmony and collective well-being.
b)Valuing the acceptance of given truths without questioning.
c)Emphasizing interconnectedness and oneness with nature.
d)Placing a premium on empirical evidence and rational inquiry.
6.The concept of "tabula rasa" proposed by John Locke is most closely aligned with
which cultural orientation?
a)Eastern c) Both Eastern and Western
b)Western d) Neither Eastern nor Western
7.In Eastern societies, the emphasis on social responsibility may manifest in
practices such as:
a)Respecting elders and honoring ancestors.
b)Encouraging individuality and personal aspirations.
c)Pursuing material prosperity and economic growth.
d)Volunteering and communal support for those in need.
8.Which of the following statements is more likely to reflect a Western approach to
truth-seeking?
a)"I will meditate and find inner peace to gain insight into the truth."
b)"I will seek wisdom from ancient texts and the teachings of my elders."
c)"I will accept the truths presented by my community and cultural norms."
d)"I will conduct experiments and gather empirical evidence to validate a
hypothesis."
9.The philosophy of Confucianism, which places a strong emphasis on social roles,
hierarchy, and respect for authority, is often associated with which cultural
orientation?
a)Eastern c) Both Eastern and Western
b)Western d) Neither Eastern nor Western
10.Which living principle is more commonly associated with Eastern cultures?
a)Pursuing personal achievements and individual success.
b)Valuing balance, harmony, and interconnectedness with nature.
c)Emphasizing the protection of human rights and personal freedoms.
d)Placing a higher premium on the scientific method and critical thinking.
11.A student from a Western country and a student from an Eastern country are
discussing their approaches to seeking truth for a school project. The Western
student suggests conducting research and experiments to validate their hypothesis,
while the Eastern student proposes referring to ancient scriptures and teachings.
How can they combine their approaches effectively?
a)The two students cannot effectively combine their approaches as they are
fundamentally incompatible.
b)The Eastern student can adopt the Western student's approach entirely to ensure
accuracy and validity.
c)The Western student can disregard the Eastern student's approach as outdated and
focus solely on empirical evidence.
d)The Western student can analyze the data gathered from experiments, and the
Eastern student can offer philosophical insights from ancient texts.
12.In a diverse workplace, there is a project team with members from various
cultural backgrounds. The team is tasked with finding a balanced solution to a
complex problem. Which approach is most likely to lead to a harmonious
resolution?
a)Following the guidance of a team leader without questioning.
b)Resolving the issue through empirical data and rational analysis.
c)Prioritizing individual opinions and aspirations over collective decision-making.
d)Encouraging open discussions and respecting diverse viewpoints to find a
compromise.
13.Two neighbors, one from a Western culture and the other from an Eastern
culture, have different views on social responsibilities. The Western neighbor
emphasizes individual rights and autonomy, while the Eastern neighbor prioritizes
community well-being. How can they find common ground?
a)They should avoid discussing their cultural differences and focus only on shared
interests.
b)The Eastern neighbor should adopt the Western neighbor's perspective to
maintain peace.
c)The Western neighbor should persuade the Eastern neighbor that individual rights
are more important for societal progress.
d)The Western neighbor can understand the Eastern neighbor's emphasis on
community, and the Eastern neighbor can recognize the importance of personal
rights.
14.An international team of researchers aims to address an environmental issue
affecting both Eastern and Western regions. How can they best integrate their
respective cultural values and approaches?
a)The team should disregard cultural differences and focus solely on objective data
and analysis.
b)The team should prioritize individual interests over collective efforts to address
the problem effectively.
c)The team can incorporate both scientific research and traditional ecological
knowledge from Eastern cultures.
d)The Eastern members should take the lead in decision-making due to their closer
connection to the environmental issue.
15.A multinational corporation is expanding its operations to a new country that has
a culture with a strong Eastern orientation. The company's HR team is tasked with
developing a corporate culture that aligns with local values and principles. Which
approach is most likely to promote successful integration and engagement with the
local workforce?
a)Encouraging collective decision-making and fostering a sense of community and
teamwork.
b)Implementing a strict hierarchical structure to maintain clear authority and roles
within the organization.
c)Prioritizing individual performance and competition to motivate employees and
achieve company goals.
d)Ignoring cultural differences and applying the company's standard practices from
its Western-oriented headquarters
The Gist
Eastern Orientation
Collectivist
Spiritual
Customs and traditions frequently have some
fundamental precepts in common that serve as a person's
compass in life. While each tradition has its own
distinctive elements, some basic Eastern tenets include:
Western Orientation
Individualistic
Hands-on
Western living principles frequently place an emphasis on
individuality, reason, and a focus on achieving personal goals
and fulfillment, despite being varied and multifaceted.
Western-oriented living principles include some of the
following:

1. Harmony and Balance: 1. Individualism

2. Non-attachment 2. Rationality and Critical Thinking
3. Mindfulness and Presence 3. Human Rights and Freedom
4. Compassion and Kindness 4. Democracy and Rule of Law
5. Self-reflection and Inner Inquiry 5. Progress and Innovation
6. Humility and Humbleness 6. Achievement and Success
7. Respect for Elders and Ancestors 7. Material Prosperity
8. Acceptance of Impermanence 8. Egalitarianism
9. Duty and Responsibility 9. Secularism and Separation of Church and State
10. Detachment from Ego 10. Scientific Inquiry
11. Responsibility for One’s Action
12. Personal Growth and Development

These guiding principles help people in Eastern cultures

live more peacefully, contentedly, and spiritually
enlightened lives. They offer a structure for developing
oneself, acting morally, and comprehending oneself and
the world better.
While the guidelines are prevalent in Western cultures, not all
people or communities within these societies can use them.
Nevertheless, these guiding principles continue to have an
impact on modern Western thought
and lifestyle and have had a significant impact on the growth
and character of Western civilizations.