UNDERSTANDING THE

SELF

The self in western and eastern

thought
Group 1
LEARNING OUTCOMES
AT THE END OF THIS LESSON,
YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO:

LEARN THE DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES ON

THE SELF IN WESTERN AND EASTERN
PHILOSOPHY
THE SELF IN WESTERN THOUGHT

• In Western philosophy, the concept of the self has been a subject of

extensive discussion and debate.
• Various philosophers have put forth different theories and perspectives on
the nature of the self.
• Some key philosophers in Western thought include Rene Descartes, John
Locke, and Immanuel Kant.
• Descartes proposed the concept of a thinking, concious self as the
foundation of knowledge.
• Locke emphasized the role of experience in shaping personal identity and
the self.
• Kant explored the relationship between reason and the self, highlighting
the autonomy of the individual.
INDIVIDUALISM IN WESTERN THOUGHT

• Western thought has often emphasized individualism, focusing on

the importance of the self in personal identity and autonomy.
• The self is seen as a distinct entity with unique characteristics
and rights.
• Individualism values personal freedom, self-determination, and
the pursuit of individual goals.
• This perspective has influenced various aspects of Western
culture, including politics, economics, and social structures.
THE SELF IN EASTERN THOUGHT

• In contrast to Western thought, Eastern philosophy offers a different

perspective on the self.
• Eastern philosophies, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism,
emphasize interconnectedness and the dissolution of the self.
• The concept of the self in Eastern thought is often seen as an illusion or a
construct.
• Key philosophers in Eastern thought include Laozi, Buddha, and
Confucius.
• These philosophers explored the idea of selflessness, the
interconnectedness of all beings, and the pursuit of harmony.
COLLECTIVISM IN EASTERN THOUGHT

• Eastern thought also emphasizes collectivism, focusing on the

interconnectedness of individuals with the community and the
universe.
• The self is seen as part of a larger whole, and the well-being of
the community is prioritized.
• Collectivism values harmony, cooperation, and the fulfillment of
social roles and responsibilities.
• This perspective has influenced various aspects of Eastern
culture, including social structures, ethics, and spirituality.
 COMPARISON OF WESTERN AND EASTERN THOUGHT

EASTERN THOUGHT WESTERN THOUGHT

Selflessness by living in harmonious Looks at the world in dualities but

life with nature and society. focus most on the self.

Keeps low profile, considers Highlights personal achievements.

boasting oneself disrupts social relations.

Loyal to the community. Looks after the welfare of the group, values Conscious of social roles that invoked traits
cooperation, group oriented. positive for the self.

Have respectful terms for seniors and workers would not dare
Individualistic culture, individual
go against the high ranking officials.
needs focus.
 THE SELF IN WESTERN RELIGION

Western religions, such as In these religions, the self is The self is seen as a moral agent
Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, often seen in relation to God and with free will and the capacity
also offer their own perspectives on morality. for ispirituall growth.
the self.

Personal identity and the self

are shaped by religious beliefs
and practices.
 THE SELF IN EASTERN RELIGION

• Eastern religions, such as • In these religions, the self is often

• The concept of the self is often
Hinduism, Buddhism, and seen in relation to the universe and
transcended or dissolved in the
Taoism, offer different the pursuit of enlightenment. quest for spiritual awakening.
perspectives on the self.

Personal identity and the self

are seen as temporary and ever-
changing.
 THE SELF IN MODERN WESTERN
PSYCHOLOGY

• In modern Western psychology,

• The self is seen as a
the self is studied from a • Theories of self-concept, self-
multidimensional construct that
scientific and psychological esteem, and self-actualization are encompasses thoughts, feelings, and
perspective. explored. behaviors.

Personal identity and the self

are shaped by social, cultural,
and psychological factors.
 THE SELF IN MODERN EASTERN
PSYCHOLOGY

• In modern Eastern psychology, the • The emphasis is on cultivating

• The self is seen as interconnected
self is understood in relation to awareness and compassion towards
with the larger web of life and the
mindfulness, selflessness, and oneself and others.
interdependence.
well-being of all beings.

Personal identity and the self

are seen as fluid and influenced
by one’s level of
consciousness.
THANK YOU!!!